Terrific Moves Have the Browns Thinking Playoffs Again

In 2007, the Cleveland Browns enjoyed a resurgence for much of the regular season. Despite finishing with ten wins, however, the team missed the playoffs due to an ultra-competitive AFC. The team, while offensively-potent, finished in the bottom-third of the league defensively, a weakness that cost them several key wins, including an early contest against the hapless Oakland Raiders.

As the team was so close to postseason glory, it should be no surprise that the Browns, more than any other team in the league, have come into the free agency period looking to up their talent. After keeping their breakout quarterback from the previous season, Derek Anderson, the Browns went after areas of need, trading for defensive end Shaun Rogers and signing wide receiver Donte Stallworth.

Shaun Rogers is widely considered one of the best defensive ends in the NFL and should immediately bolster a Cleveland line that only had twenty-eight sacks in 2007, good for sixth-worst in the NFL. Although there are some minor injury and personal issues with Rogers, the Browns made a low-risk, high-reward trade to acquire him. A healthy and motivated Shaun Rogers could instantly transform the Browns' woeful defense.

The other major move made by the Browns, signing Donte Stallworth, also should pay immediate dividends. The primary receiver for the team, Braylon Edwards, relies on his size and physicality to catch balls. Adding a speedy, home-run hitter type compliment on the other side of the field was a perfect move. Stallworth is one of the fastest receivers in the league and should make the game easier for quarterback Derek Anderson.

The team still has work to do. Their defense won't be mended on the merits of one player alone, no matter how good that player is. And the team is unlikely to take any opponent by surprise after last year's terrific results. But for now, the future looks bright in Cleveland.