Ben Tate expected to sign with Cleveland Browns today
Houston Texans running back Ben Tate (44) runs the ball and is tackled by Indianapolis Colts inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman (50) during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports
The Cleveland Browns have always been viewed as the most likely landing spot for former Houston Texans No. 2 running back Ben Tate, who believes he can be a great back once given the feature role. It’s clear that the Browns have the biggest need at the position in the NFL, and Tate is clearly the most talented free agent running back available. The fit looks great on paper, and there’s been smoke linking Tate to the Browns for quite some time. He visited the Browns on Thursday, and now FOX 8 News’s John Telich reports that Tate “should” sign with the team today.
Per Telich, the last hurdle is a physical for Tate, who has injury concerns specifically relating his ability to carry a No. 1 back’s workload. He also reports that the contract is performance-based, which makes sense given his top talent but the uncertainty related to his ability to be a feature back.
Free agent running backs clearly aren’t held in high regard, but Ben Tate looks like a great fit for the Browns and would represent a terrific upgrade. He had 771 rushing yards last year and the 25-year-old also ran for 942 yards on just 175 carries as a rookie standout. Tate clearly has the talent to be a top back in this league, and I believe the financial details of his deal will greatly favor the Browns.