The Cleveland Browns clearly had a focus to start free agency, and that was to bolster their offensive line.
The biggest addition was the signing of guard Kevin Zeitler. He is a former first-round pick out of Wisconsin and figures to step in at right guard, where he played in Cincinnati. He was the top-rated free-agent offensive lineman, according to Pro Football Focus, and becomes the highest-paid guard in the league at an average of $12 million per year.
His signing is a big deal for a line that gave up 66 sacks in 2016.
Terms: $60 million for five years, with $31.5 million guaranteed.
ESPN 150 ranking: Eighth.
Grade -- A: Snagging the guy considered to be the best lineman on the market, a guy who has started 71 of 72 games, was a Pro Bowl alternate last year and is just 27 ... what's not to like?
What it means: The Browns committed to improving up front on Day 1 of free agency. They extended the contract of left guard Joel Bitonio. They signed center JC Tretter. They claimed center Marcus Martin on waivers. And they signed Zeitler. This screams that Cam Erving has a last chance to make it at tackle, or perhaps he'll go. It also raises questions about the future of John Greco, 31. Greco is a pro's pro who has been an underrated starter from the moment he set foot on the field for the Browns. But like Bitonio, Greco is coming off Lisfranc surgery. And it's tough to imagine Zeitler making $60 million to sit on the bench.
What's the risk: Paying a guy who has never been to the Pro Bowl as one of the best at his position always is risky. The Browns did that with Zeitler, a solid and consistent player, but not one who has been discussed in the $12 million range -- until he hit free agency. That $12 million average is the highest in the league for a guard. Zeitler now has to play up to the contract, but he is a Wisconsin guy so he has that going for him.
