5 reasons Browns fans can bet on a turnaround in 2020

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 24: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Odell Beckham #13 of the Cleveland Browns during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

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ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 29: Austin Hooper #81 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

2. The free agents will contribute mightily

The Browns front office was not shy about spending money in free agency. There’s an argument to be made that the team overspent on the talent they brought in, but there isn’t any question about whether or not they improved their football team.

Austin Hooper isn’t the best tight end in football, but the Browns had to pay him at that level to win the battle for his services. He’ll be a huge asset for Baker Mayfield as both a safety blanket and a tight end who can make big plays down the seam. He’s in for a big year as the team’s flashiest free agent acquisition.

Jack Conklin might be the more important addition though. He’ll step right in and stabilize the right side of the offensive line from the tackle position. The Browns still need to address left tackle in the draft, but Conklin will be a huge mentor for that player as well. He immediately becomes the best player charged with protecting Mayfield.

Even Karl Joseph projects to have a reasonable impact at the safety position. He’s not a Pro Bowler, but he’s an upgrade over what the Browns had on their back line in 2019.

The cost of these deals might make them look questionable in time, but the Browns addressed serious needs in free agency. That will lead to additional wins in 2020.

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