The Cleveland Browns took another step backwards last season, as they went from 7-9 in 2014 to tied for the NFL's worst record this past season at 3-13. The Browns organization has been in total overhaul mode since the end of the 2015 season, as they have changed both their coaching staff and their front office.
While Cleveland fans are likely sick of hearing that they are in rebuilding mode, that is clearly the case with the Browns in 2016. Cleveland made its smartest decision in quite sometime in releasing troubled quarterback Johnny Manziel and can now focus on building a strong foundation, adding players to their roster that will put the team first.
The Browns made a significant move on Wednesday, though, as they landed former New York Jets linebacker Demario Davis on a two-year deal. Davis' new contract with the Browns is reportedly worth $8 million and adds an instant impact player to their defense in 2016.
The Browns have also reportedly informed linebacker Karlos Dansby that they will be releasing him, which only makes Davis' signing with Cleveland that much more important. Dansby recorded 108 combined tackles, three interceptions, and forced two fumbles last season, and was of the few bright spots on their roster heading into the 2016 season. The Browns clearly think very highly of Davis, as the move to release Dansby comes the same day they add the young linebacker.
Davis recorded 90 combined tackles and two sacks while recovering a fumble last season, and he has been a durable player for the Jets, as he has not missed a game since being selected in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. The 27-year-old linebacker saw his snaps diminish this past season in New York, and he will be looking to prove himself in his first season in Cleveland.
The Browns clearly struggled on both sides of the ball last season and finished 29th in the league in terms of points allowed per game last season. While Cleveland is likely focused on finding their next franchise quarterback in the upcoming 2016 NFL Draft, they have not forgotten about the importance of their defense and have landed a significant impact player in Davis.
