Browns: 4 free agents who could alter 2021 NFL Draft plans
By Cory Kinnan
1. B.J. Goodson
Was B.J. Goodson the best linebacker at the second level of the defense a year ago? Absolutely not. But for a team that is looking to be more coverage based than run-stopping based, the Browns could look to bring Goodson back on another short term deal. First of all, the Browns will be highly unlikely to land a new linebacker early in the draft as it is, but they may hold off altogether with an extension of Goodson.
One thing this fanbase will learn early on in the offseason is that this front office does not view linebacker as a massive priority as viewers do. There is a reason Goodson started at MIKE every game he was healthy, and why the Browns did not take him off the field. While he was not a great run defender, and was late to engage at the point of attack, he has a feel in coverage. This is the priority of defensive coordinator Joe Woods.
Starting 14 games this season, Goodson knocked down six passes and intercepted two passes for the Brown and Orange defense. the Browns will not pay a linebacker big money nor use a high draft pick on one, so Goodson will have to agree to a team-friendly deal. But if he does, do not look for a ton more action at the position later in the offseason.