Browns fans aren’t happy the team released Sheldon Richardson

The Cleveland Browns released Sheldon Richardson on Friday in a surprising decision, and fans aren’t thrilled about the aspect.

The Browns cutting Richardson appeared to be a financial decision as much as anything, with ownership saving $11 million against the salary cap. It does leave a massive hole on the Browns defensive line leading up to the NFL Draft, perhaps giving away the team’s first or second-round plans.

Richardson signed with the Browns before the 2019, and racked up some respectable stats. He started 31 games and recorded 7.5 sacks over two seasons. Considering his deal didn’t have any guaranteed money left on it, the Browns will get away scot free. Richardson said goodbye to Cleveland on instagram, seeming to hint that there’s no reworked deal in the works here.

Why would the Cleveland Browns cut Sheldon Richardson?

First, the contract is the main reason — let’s not pretend it’s anything else. However, the Browns clearly have confidence in the men behind Richardson on the depth chart, including Malik Jackson and Andrew Billings. Not to mention, they signed Jadeveon Clowney to pair with Myles Garrett on the defensive line. Richardson has racked up an average 82.3 PFF grade since 2013, which is good for 26th in the league. He won’t be easily replaced by those two alone.

Cleveland sports fans as a whole are confused by the franchise’s direction in this case.

https://twitter.com/JusSayin88/status/1383152341575032833

Browns supporters would be wise to stick with Andrew Berry’s decision-making for now. There’s likely something else happening behind the scenes that they’re not aware of. Reacting harshly to any NFL move is a norm around the league, but Berry’s track record in limited time in Cleveland speaks to a greater vision.