Cleveland Browns: 5 offseason needs in 2019

1. More help for the secondary

General manager John Dorsey raised more eyebrows then solicited applause when he selected former Ohio State standout Denzel Ward with the fourth-overall pick in the past draft. Ward quickly dispelled any negative speculation with two interceptions in the team’s first regular-season game.

Ward went on to have a stellar rookie campaign that was good enough for him to be named to the Pro Bowl. He had three interceptions, 11 passes defended and one forced-fumble in 13 games.

Undeniably, Ward proved Dorsey’s pick was a good one, and that he has the potential to be a lock-down cornerback. Dorsey now has to try to work his cornerback magic and find a number-two to play on the opposite side of Ward.

T.J. Carrie, Terrance Mitchell, E.J. Gaines and Phillip Gaines found themselves taking reps throughout the season. The latter two names are impending free agents, and Carrie and Mitchell may not be retained.

This position is interesting because Dorsey may not have to break the bank in free agency for what’s available, but he could also toy with the idea of drafting someone too.

At the end of the day, it is highly unlikely a player like Greedy Williams falls into their laps on draft day. Therefore, the Browns may feel more inclined to sign a player like Ronald Darby to a long-term deal, or ink someone like Kareem Jackson on a shorter contract.

Regardless of the route selected, there are options to filling this need that will not only help the team, but also allow Ward to progress nicely.