Cleveland Browns: 5 offseason needs in 2019

2. Second thoughts at the second level

Joe Schobert followed up his Pro Bowl 2017 with a strong 2018 campaign. Although, his season was cut short due to an injury that limited him to 13 games. As an athletic linebacker, Schobert has shown some promise in pass coverage. Jamie Collins and Christian Kirksey have proven to be more of a liability defending the pass.

Opposing tight ends exploited Cleveland’s linebacker corps all season. The unit gave up the second-most receptions to tight ends and they were top 10 in yards and touchdowns allowed to the position. Of course, those number don’t directly fall on the linebackers, but upgrading at the position is still a need.

The draft may not be the premier route to address this area. The Browns should consider using one of their top draft picks on other needs, and to dive into free agency to debunk this issue.

One name that makes a lot of sense is Los Angeles Rams linebacker Cory Littleton. He had a career-year in 2018 as he was named to his first Pro Bowl. He had three interceptions, 13 passes defensed, four sacks and 125 combined tackles.

The only snafu with Littleton is that he is a restricted free agent, meaning the Rams can match any offer he receives from other teams. Not that he can’t be signed, but it comes with a few hurdles.

Two other options that can be pursued via the free agent route are inside linebacker K.J. Wright, and outside linebacker Anthony Barr.