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Cleveland Browns: Grading big free agent additions so far

By Khaled Abdallah

Sep 8, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Malik Jackson (97) holds his foot after injuring it against the Washington Redskins during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Malik Jackson (97) holds his foot after injuring it against the Washington Redskins during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images /

Takkarist McKinley, EDGE (Las Vegas Raiders)

Grade: B

Takk McKinley was last officially a member of the Las Vegas Raiders after they took a flyer on him when the Atlanta Falcons released him midway through the season but he never took a snap in Silver and Black. The Browns bought low on the former first round pick and signed him to a one-year deal worth $4.25 million and up to $6 million in incentives.

McKinley has struggled to make a great impact in the NFL but has a respectable 17.5 sacks in 49 games with the Falcons. He has not lived up to his first round selection and has had attitude problems that saw his relationship with the Falcons deteriorate but there is no question he has talent.

The former UCLA Bruin now gets a chance to revitalize his career by playing on a competitive team opposite one of the best defensive ends in the NFL in Myles Garrett. With offenses focused on stopping Garrett, McKinley should be able to make a similar impact to Olivier Vernon who had 9 sacks before his season ended with an Achilles tear in Week 17.

This is a low risk signing for the Browns that does not keep them from adding another pass rusher but it has good upside if McKinley can refocus on football and stay healthy. He is not a gamechanger by any means but if deployed the right way and if his mind is right, McKinley could make an impact for the Browns and repay their faith in him.

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