The start of the NFL free agency’s legal tampering period
has been mostly slow for the Cleveland Browns. GM Andrew Berry reportedly inked OL Zion Johnson to a big deal and saw two defenders, LB Devin Bush and DE Cameron Thomas, depart in free agency.Now, according to multiple reports, Berry has found his replacement for Bush with former All-Pro LB Quincy Williams.
The third round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019, and brother of Dallas Cowboys DT Quinnen Williams, started 73 of 78 games for
the New York Jets the last five seasons, making the All-Pro team in 2023. Williams has been a force behind the line of scrimmage with 61 tackles for loss, 21 quarterback hits, and 12.5 sacks in his career. He’s been especially good the last few seasons:
New Browns DC Mike Rutenberg previously coached Williams with the Jets and Jaguars. Rutenberg talked about Williams when he was introduced in Cleveland:
While Pro Football Focus noted Williams’ success above, he graded poorly last year (45.5) after two good graded seasons prior (68.0, 81.1) in New York. Overall, besides his best year in 2023, Williams has been much stronger against the run and rushing the passer than in coverage.
