Cleveland Browns interested in free Agent LB Manny Lawson
The Cleveland Browns continue to focus on adding depth to their defense. With the signings of Frostee Rucker, and Juqua Parker the Browns believe they have added quality, and depth to their defensive line. Now the Browns are interested in doing the same with their linebacker core as they are showing interest in former Bengal Manny Lawson. The website Scout.com is sighting league sources saying that the Browns, Raiders, and Colts are all interested in signing Lawson. This free agent signing (if made), will help the Browns in two different ways.
The first way is being that the Browns are questionable in depth at the linebacker position. Out of the 6 linebacker reserves that were to back up starters Chris Gocong, D’Qwell Jackson, and Scott Fujita, five of them were rookies. Lawson would add depth, and experience to a young linebacker corp.
Secondly there is a chance that a move such as this would be made in anticipation of possible suspension of Scott Fujita. Fujita was one of several players named in the New Orleans “Bounty” investigation according to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen. With the NFL preparing to discipline individuals who were involved with the program ran by former DC Gregg Williams, the punishment could be steep. There is very real possibility that any players involved could be handed multi-game suspensions. A veteran signing at the linebacker position could be an insurance policy for the Browns.
Lawson is a 27-year-old former first round draft pick (22nd overall) of the San Francisco 49ers in 2006. He was selected during a season when the 49ers were switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defensive scheme. Lawson played most of his college career (North Carolina State) at Defensive End but was athletic enough to make the transition to linebacker. In 2007 Lawson tore his ACL during practice in week three of the season. He spent the remainder of that year on the 49ers injured reserve list but did come back to play in 14 games in 2008. Lawson spent the 2011 season with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Michael W. Youngman
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4 Responses to “Cleveland Browns interested in free Agent LB Manny Lawson”
March 21, 2012 at 7:05 PM
Ain't gonna happen! they'e focusing on the draft and that's what builds champions..not free agency according to Heckert and I have to honestly say that I agree with him as well. I don't want any retreads from other team's scrap heaps, we'll adress that with this draft and next years as well. I want fresh young players that can be molded and shaped to our system ans that can be a part of this team for years to come like Joe Thomas, Josh Cribbs, Alex Mack, Phil Dawson..etc. etc.
March 22, 2012 at 5:34 AM
Greg--I understand and agree with your logic that the BEST way is to build through the Draft. That being said and due to the numerous problems the Browns face via improvements to both the offense and defense, would it not be beneficial to use all options available--one being free agency? To solely depend on the draft--in the Browns situation--is flawed logic. The Browns need to use anything and everything at their disposal to increase the chances of adding impact players and also the timeline involved. Thanks for the comment Greg--I like it when you visit and give us your opinion!!
March 22, 2012 at 12:18 PM
I agree with Gregg that the best way to build a solid and sustaing team is through the draft.You also make a good point in utilizing FA to fill some big holes on this team.I have some questions,1-what top tier FA would want to come to a team that has been so bad for so long? 2-what 2nd tier FA would want to come to a team that has been so bad for so long except to be paid excorbitant amounts of cash for marginal results at best?
March 22, 2012 at 3:42 PM
Totally understand where you are coming from Mike and yes, you have brought up a point that is probably standing in the way of the Browns signing numerous players in free agency. What do the Browns have to offer? Frostee came here because he can be a starter, which was pretty much nullified in Cincy (all players should want to start). Contracts that contain increased payoffs due to performance and/or being designated as starter are secure in the Browns perspective and an incentive to players who would be "back-ups" on the team that let them fall into free agency--hence being a free agent. There are no attractive options to come to the Browns minus a huge paycheck or the ability to be labeled a starter, however the need to attract these players requires the Browns to 1: offer the large paychecks or 2: set the contract on a back end large payment--somewhat a performance pay. I find it hard to believe that given the opportunity to start for the Browns compared to being a Back-up and at a pay increase (though not massive) that this alone would not be appealing to numerous players--except of course those that have few years left and are seeking that immediate super bowl ring--Peyton Manning! Understanding your logic--which is correct--I believe that a desperate situation (which the Browns are truly in) requires desperate and not the "norm" actions. Anyone believing the Browns are not in a situation of desperation can merely look at this seasons opponents compared to last season, add to that our additions in free agency, along with what we hope is a good draft (keeping in mind they are rookies) compare the two and determine easily that we, if not improved greatly on offense, are in deep trouble...Thanks for the comment Mike!
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