Rumors out of New York say that the Jets may cut edge rusher Carl Lawson as a cap casualty this offseason. A contract may restructure to keep him in New York but if not could the Cleveland Browns target Lawson? The team isn’t likely to sign him for anything close to the salary he is set to make if he remains in New York. If Lawson is looking for a one-year prove-it type deal he would be a great addition opposite Myles Garrett.
As the number two option on the defensive line, Lawson would get many one on one opportunities to exploit. With the Jets in 2022 according to PFF, Lawson had 49 quarterback pressures and 8 sacks earning a 72.8 pass-rushing grade. The Browns didn’t have anyone outside of Myles Garrett that had more than 29 pressures so Lawson would be a massive upgrade.
Not much of a factor in the run game so unless Lawson comes at a team-friendly price the team likely won’t give him big money. But if the Browns want to be contenders finding production like Lawson’s opposite Myles Garrett is a must-have.