30 best moves made during the 2019 NFL offseason

17. Cleveland Browns trade for Olivier Vernon, New York Giants get Kevin Zeitler

The Cleveland Browns move for Odell Beckham Jr. has gotten all the attention, but there was another trade made with the New York Giants that will also help the team this season. Not long before the Beckham deal, the Browns and the Giants agreed to swap linemen, as defensive end Olivier Vernon went to Cleveland and right guard Kevin Zeitler is now with the Giants.

Unlike the Beckham trade, which made no sense for New York, this one actually benefited both teams. For the Browns, they now have someone to start opposite Myles Garrett, which will make things much more difficult for opposing offenses when trying to stop the pass rush.

While it did cost them a strong player in Zeitler, general manager John Dorsey used the No. 33 overall pick in 2018 on Austin Corbett, meaning there was a succession plan in place, as he’s slated to slide in at guard.

For New York, Vernon wasn’t a great fit in their new defensive scheme, but the Giants were able to flip him for an outstanding guard. Suddenly, a major weakness on the team is starting to look like a strength which will be a huge benefit to them.

Not only will he help Saquon Barkley and the running game improve, but Zeitler will be a huge benefit to whoever starts under center. Currently, the team plans to use Eli Manning still, but could turn to rookie Daniel Jones. Whether the Giants stick with the slower Manning, or the inexperienced Jones, Zeitler — who is an excellent pass blocker — will help give them the extra time they need in the pocket.