Could Browns Make a Surprise Run at Arik Armstead?

Overtime Heroics Editorial

2005 days ago

Ok, call me crazy, but what if the Browns decide that Arik Armstead and Myles Garrett would look great on the same front four? Are you in? I certainly would be if he somehow slipped away from the 49ers. If the Browns cut Olivier Vernon, you have an instant 15 million to throw at Armstead. Then you still have 60-65 million available to up the anty if needed. Free agency is not the way to build an NFL team. But when a talented 6’7″ 280 pound 26-year-old physical freak hits the market, you go get him. It is especially true when you already have a physical monster of your own chewing up quarterbacks from the edge. Joe Woods knows what Armstead can do and I bet there would be no complaints from him if the Browns went all-in on Armstead.

Armstead’s Breakout Campaign

If Arik Armstead is so good they why did it take him till his fifth season to breakout? Is it a fluke and he will revert? To answer the first question, this is Armsteads third full season of play because injuries robbed him of years two and three, slowing his development. The other significant factor to his breakout season fellow rusher Nick Bosa taking some of the heat. Myles is here for that. Armstead is also unlikely to revert to the two-sack guy he looked like before last season for two reasons. One, he has all the tools to succeed. Two, he has Myles, Larry Ogunjobi, and Sheldon Richardson playing on the same line with him. All talented players on there own helping to create havoc for offensive lines. Cleveland could look enticing if the 49ers didn’t make it work under the cap.

The Injury History

Armstead played a total of 14 games during the 2016 and 2017 with injuries to his shoulder and hand. The key to this is they were two season-ending injuries that haven’t affected his game. If he was sitting with hamstrings, sore knees, or other problems, then you approach with caution. Armstead also has played a full 16 games over the last two years. At this point, no team should have any concerns with injury signing him to a big contract.

Run Defense

Not only does Armstead bring ten sacks to the table, but he is also a great run stopper. Actually, Armstead is a better run defender than he is a pass rusher, and after last season that is saying something. He has been one of the top run defenders throughout his career, according to Pro Football Focus peaking in 2018 at a run grade of 78.4. The Browns need help in both run defense and getting pressure on the quarterback. Armstead could bring that entire package to Cleveland.

The 49ers will likely free up the space to sign Armstead or use the franchise tag. He is a crucial part of their success. But should they let him get away, the Browns should pounce and create one of the best defensive end combos in the NFL. Also, don’t worry Browns fans the team would still have enough to go out and get Jack Conklin. This new front office needs to make some bold moves. Armstead would be just that should he hit the market.

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