On the second day of free agency, the Browns made another move by signing linebacker Antwaan Peek, a move that was expected after the team had met with him extensively last night. Peek agreed to a three-year deal, but financial details have not yet been made available. Peek's specialty is right up the ally of what the Browns are looking for: a pass rusher. Although he has less experience, there is a chance that he could challenge veteran linebacker Willie McGinest for a starting role.
Last year, Peek made the switch to defensive end with the Texans. In 2005, Peek started 16 games at outside linebacker and had 57 tackles to go along with six sacks. With the Browns already having a surplus of linebackers, it would seem almost definite that the Browns would have to release someone between David McMillan, Matt Stewart, or Chaun Thompson.
"We're pleased to add Antwaan Peek to the Browns," said Browns general manager Phil Savage. "He has a past association with Todd Grantham, he fits the 3-4 defense as an outside linebacker and we feel he will help our pass rush."
In other free agent news, the first member of the Browns' released players has signed elsewhere. Wide receiver
Dennis Northcutt is officially a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Many people are surprised at the type of deal that Northcutt received: a five-year contract that is worth an average of $3.4 million per year, according to the Times-Union. His deal also includes a
$4.5 million signing bonus. The Jaguars will utilize Northcutt as their punt returner and a slot receiver. Although some Browns fans are probably laughing at the deal, I believe Northcutt will certainly have a positive effect on the Jaguars offense. I'm not saying he was worth that much money, however.
Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer states that offensive tackle Ryan Tucker will play this season, and plans to return as a starter.
"I feel great, man," Tucker said during a public appearance at the new Gold's Gym in Westlake. "It's a whole new chapter in my life and I'm ready to get on with it. I absolutely plan on coming back and starting for the Browns this season."
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Mary Kay Cabot, Cleveland Plain Dealer
Tucker states that he is not ready to discuss his personal problem in full yet, but one day he may decide to. Personally, it would seem sensible that if the Browns made a sudden run at the postseason, CBS or FOX would probably try to do a story on Tucker and his "comeback" to football.
"My body's in great shape and I'm really excited to come back and play," he said. "I'm more grateful than ever and really looking forward to this season."
New offensive line coach Steve Marshall said he's met with Tucker and expects him to begin working out in the Browns' off-season program this week.
"Ryan has been in and working very hard," Marshall said. "We expect him to come in and be a big part of the offense. I'm excited about Ryan."
- Mary Kay Cabot, Cleveland Plain Dealer
If Tucker does return and is able to play at the level at which he is best, our offensive line may turn out all right next year if we add a lineman or two on day one of the draft.
