The name of cornerback Greg Newsome II has been floated around in possible trade rumors this offseason after he expressed frustration with usage last season on social media. The former first-round pick of the Cleveland Browns had no problem letting everyone know that he didn’t want to play in the slot again in 2023. Then after he changed agents it seemed like a trade request could be on the way.
After he dispelled those rumors on social media he talked more about those rumors during his media availability this week. He also discussed his usage issues and how he feels he will be put in a better position to succeed under new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. Let’s look at what he said earlier this week in Berea.
On his thoughts about reports he wanted to be traded:
“I was mad. I really just don’t think people really, truly understand how much–first of all, Cleveland means to me. Getting drafted here, the fans embracing me right away. I really just don’t understand something like that. I wouldn’t do that. I truly adore Cleveland. I was definitely mad.”
On why he changed agents:
“That’s a personal reason. I didn’t change agents to try to get out of here. I changed agents because I think for my career, it will help me in the long run. I changed agents just for personal reasons.”
On tweeting he didn’t want to play in the slot:
“I think that was last year’s issue. Now, with a new defensive coordinator (Jim Schwartz), just being able to sit down, talk to him, see a new scheme and things like that. I feel like last year, I was more of a linebacker in certain instances than an actual cornerback. Talking to Jim Schwartz and being able to get in his new scheme, I feel like we will work very well together.”
On if he is open to playing some inside:
“Yeah. I feel like that was never–the clear issue was not just me playing in the slot. Against Cincinnati, guarding a guy like (WR) Tyler Boyd, guarding guys like that–I have no problem with doing that. I just feel like in certain cases, I was more of a linebacker than a cornerback.”
On if he likes the role Schwartz has explained to him:
“Yeah. I’m super excited. His track record speaks for itself. Just the way he uses his defensive line is going to help us corners so much more. Just getting to talk to him, seeing how the scheme is going to be ran. I am super excited.”
