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Next up, we look at another Browns’ restricted free agent, ILB Josh Keyes.
How and When He Joined the Browns: Keyes was an undrafted free agent in 2015 who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He bounced between a couple of teams before signing with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017, where he appeared in two games. When Keyes was waived last November, the Browns claimed him — a move that happened a month before the era of new GM John Dorsey.
Productivity Level Last Season: Keyes played in 8 games for the Browns last year, but did not see any snaps on defense. He played 147 snaps on special teams, filling the void that was left after the team waived another linebacker (Deon King). Keyes finished the season with 4 tackles on special teams.
Why Keeping Him Could Make Sense: Cleveland doesn’t have a lot of proven depth at inside linebacker, so if they are at all intrigued by what Keyes can do on defense, he might be worth a shot. If not, then he’s a special teams contributor.
What the Browns Should Do: Keyes hasn’t done anything in the NFL to warrant being more than a minimum-salaried player. There is no reason to offer him the minimum tender of $1.91 million. They should let Keyes become a free agent, and if they are interested, bring him back for the minimum. Personally, I would just move on.
Let us know below whether or not the team should try to tender Josh Keyes!