Cleveland Browns free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

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Browns free agent targets, Matthew Judon

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – DECEMBER 20: Linebacker Matthew Judon #99 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on prior to the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at M&T Bank Stadium on December 20, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

3. Matthew Judon

Garrett is a dominant force for the Browns at his defensive end spot, but he needs a better partner if Cleveland’s front seven is really going to become elite. Robbing the Ravens of one of their defensive stalwarts could help the Browns take a meaningful step forward.

Judon isn’t a perfect edge player, but his ability to get to the quarterback at a healthy rate will get him paid in free agency. The Browns should know his game intimately after going up against him numerous times. The chance to upgrade their own defense at the expense of a division rival makes the idea of inking Jodon particularly intriguing.

The downside to Judon’s game is that he’s essentially a one-trick pony at this stage of his career. He’s at his best when he’s freed up to fire off the edge with reckless abandon. Any team signing him to set the edge against the opponents’ run game is going to walk away disappointed.

Judon is one of several sack artists that will find their way onto the open market this offseason. The Browns should be careful to avoid paying him like an All-Pro. He’s a guy who can help their defense but won’t revolutionize it. Even so, getting him on a moderately expensive deal would be a quality win for Cleveland.

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