Browns rumored to be interested in Nate Solder

The Cleveland Browns seem resigned to the fact that they need to do something to replace left tackle Greg Robinson in the starting lineup.

While general manager John Dorsey has made it clear - at least within the boundaries of the NFL’s tampering rules - that he has called the Washington Redskins repeatedly about left tackle Trent Williams, a new candidate has allegedly surfaced.

According to Jason LaCanfora at CBS Sports, if the Browns are unable to work out a deal for Williams, they may turn their attention to another team in the NFC East Division:

Nate Solder is in his second year with the Giants after agreeing to a contract that, at the time, made him the highest-paid offensive tackle in the league. He is due $56.1 million over the next two-and-a-half seasons of his contract, according to Matt Lombardo of nj.com, but Solder has an out clause in the contract that would create a $13 million dead money hit after this season.

The problem is that Solder would be, at best, a minimal upgrade over Robinson at left tackle and, more likely, just as bad it not worse.

According to Pro Football Focus, in 463 offensive snaps this season, Solder has committed four penalties, has surrendered five sacks and posted an overall grade of 64.4

Robinson, in 335 offensive snaps, has committed five penalties, surrendered one sack and posted an overall grade of 67.8.

Why the Browns would want to swap their own problem (Robinson) for someone else’s problem (Solder) is a bit of a mystery, unless Dorsey has an ulterior motive in play.

Washington general manager Bruce Allen has repeatedly said that the team has no interest in trading Williams during the season, but if he believes Dorsey is turning his attention to another player, that stance could change in the Browns favor.

The NFL trading deadline is October 29 at 4 p.m. and the game is clearly afoot.