Browns make big offseason splash
By Jeremy Green
Best of Class
The Cleveland Browns have been pushing all the right buttons this offseason. I love their philosophy of not only adding quality football players, but adding a little "local flair" to it in the process. Center LeCharles Bentley, wide receiver Joe Jurevicius, punter Dave Zastudil, and center Bob Hallen all have ties to the Cleveland area.
For far too many seasons since the Browns have been back, there has not been that solid connection between the organizations and its fans. That will all change this season.
Bentley along with newly-added left tackle Kevin Shaffer will continue to solidify a much-improved offensive line unit.
Jurevicius will not give them as much big play flair as Antonio Bryant (signed with theSan Francisco 49ers), but he is much more consistent. The Browns would like to run a ball-control style of offense based on moving the chains and controlling the clock. Jurevicius will play a key role in the revamped offense.
Hallen is a solid NFL veteran that can provide depth at center and both guard spots.
We talked earlier about controlling the clock. One way to do that is by field position and Zastudil is young and extremely talented.
You also have to like the new stamp second-year head coach Romeo Crennel has been able to put on the organization. Crennel, a Bill Belichick disciple, has been able to go out and get some veteran help on the defensive side of the ball.
In adding outside linebacker Willie McGinest and nose tackle Ted Washington, the Browns have a lot more veteran leadership on defense. This is something Crennel learned from his days in New England and he is now trying to instill that philosophy in Cleveland.
Throw in tight end Darnell Dinkins who is a young player on the rise, and the Browns were clearly the "Best of Class" as it relates to the 2006 free agent singing period.
Jeremy Green has been an NFL scout for 10 years. Most recently, he was director of pro personnel for the Cleveland Browns.