OBR Newswire Bloviation Header
OBR Newswire Bloviation Header
Good morning, Cleveland Browns fans!
Of all the downsides of my current (temporary) health situation, the most distressing is that I've been told I cannot consume the noblest of hot beverages: coffee. Attempting to put this Massive Morning Missive together without the assistance of early-morning caffeine is a bit of a trial at the very least. I've been without coffee, beer, and bourbon for nearly a week now, a situation that has left me badly shaken and considering an alternative religious persuasion. Certainly, my preferred diety has abandoned me.
But, no. I struggle. I thrash. I persist. And all for you, Dear Reader, all for you.
Really. Just you. I don't think a lot of people read this thing.
Despite the absence of a delicious, naturally-grown stimulant flowing through these tortured veins, I must wrestle with the latest moves made by the Cleveland Browns as they prepare their roster for the 2025 NFL Season. That preparation has been less than jaw-dropping to date, as the team seems happy to make incremental improvements to their roster by adding capable offensive linemen and special teams players to the squad at bargain free agent rates.
The latest deal is to bring in Teven Jenkens, a former high draft pick (second round, pick 39) who has played at left tackle, right guard, and (most recently) left guard since being drafted by the Bears. The demand for Jenkins' services didn't seem as enthusiastic as one might have expected, provoking some curiosity and questions in our internal Slack channel, and the Browns are not playing this up as a huge signing. It appears to be just a one-year deal, but we're still awaiting confirmation.
Alongside Jenkins's addition, the team wisely re-signed special teamer CB Tony Brown and had LB Jerome Baker in for a visit. All in all, this is the level of signing and excitement one expects at this stage of second-wave free agency.
If the Browns are going to make a big splash, it's going to be during the draft next month.
And don't come to me with the "Well, Barry! They made a big splash! Their biggest signing was Myles Garrett!!! (smiley face)."
That's not a big splash. That's marching in place. Garrett's a great player, but he was here last year, a season in which the team went 3-14, and keeping him doesn't move the team forward from where they were in 2024. The team's opportunity to make a significant difference is built around last year's horrific play, which provided them with high picks in this year's draft.
Teven Jenkins
Teven Jenkins
Thirty days or so to figure it out. Thirty days to watch tape, compare numbers and argue internally about what to do with all those picks. They have to get it right this time.
Have a good one! GO BROWNS!
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