Cleveland Browns: Top 5 offseason additions, post 2018 NFL Draft

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DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 23: Darren Fells #87 of the Detroit Lions celebrates his touchdown that was overturned after it was reviewed during the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on November 23, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

5. Darren Fells, TE (from Detroit Lions)

A little over a year ago, the Cleveland Browns wound up drafting three players in the first round. In 2017, they added defensive end Myles Garrett and safety Jabrill Peppers. They also added 6-4, 246-pound tight end David Njoku from the University of Miami. He responded by playing in all 16 games and making five starts. The emerging performer finished third on the team with 32 catches, good for 386 yards. He also led the Browns with four touchdown receptions.

So why add veteran Darren Fells, late of the Detroit Lions, via free agency? Because he’s regarded as one of the best blockers at his position in the league. A year ago in the Motor City, he made a career-best 13 starts and would catch 17 passes for 177 yards and three scores. The 32-year old performer joins Njoku and two-year pro Seth DeValve in terms of experience players at the position. The latter finished second on the Browns a year ago with 33 receptions, good for 395 yards and one touchdown.

Fells is a not only a nice insurance policy in terms of depth but offers a dimension that this team could certainly use. The Browns finished 18th in the NFL a year ago in rushing yards per game. The team also allowed 50 sacks in 2017, the sixth-highest total in the league.

Next: No. 4

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