NFL News and Notes

NFL Draft: Cleveland is Ready to “Rock the Clock”

This year’s draft is going to be held in the home of the Cleveland Browns. It was announced that the NFL is going to be allowed a select number of prospects, fans, and media in attendance. The fans who get front-row seats must be vaccinated and wear masks.

The 2021 NFL Draft, running from April 29th to May 1st, is going to be held at the FirstEnergy Stadium, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Great Lakes Science Center. 

CB Troy Hill Signs with Browns

Per Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, “Troy fits in great.” These were the words from the head coach when the Cleveland Browns newly signed cornerback, Troy Hill, signed a 4-year, $24 million deal. This signing has added more to their defensive haul, where Hill had three defensive touchdowns.

The Browns could start Hill at cornerback opposite Senzel Ward or even play him in the slot if Greedy Williams can return to form from his shoulder injury. 

Bengals could be adding more offensive line

The Cincinnati Bengals are watching another offensive lineman during this free agency. The Bengals have set up a potential visit with Nick Easton, former New Orlean Saints interior lineman. Easton is more of a backup-type player but really could help the offensive line and be a depth upgrade if they lose Quinton Spain on the open market.

Easton would for sure be a great addition for the Bengals with the experience that he has at the center position too. At this stage of free agency, this is the type of signing that the Bengals might have to settle for as the market looks picked dry heading into week two. 

Bengles Keep their Punting Game

Kevin Huber, who turns 36 a few weeks before training camp, has agreed to come back to the Bengals for a 13th season as their punter. Huber took a one-year deal but has explained that he wants to punt until he is at least 40. Huber is only 17 games away from tying Ken Riley as the Bengals’ all-time leader in games played. With Huber’s return, it gives the Bengals the much-needed consistency for a kicking game in transition after they were ranked #9 by Football Outsider.

Huber did stand as the team’s career leader in every significant punting category, including total (914), yards (41,362), gross average (45.25), net average (40.22), and inside-20s (315).

Other Free Agency News

Sammy Watkins visited with the Ravens and is set to meet with the Colts. It is also reported that the Titans and Texans are also interested in trying to acquire the wide receiver.

The New Your Giants have signed CB Adoree’ Jackson to a three-year deal worth $39 million. Jackson will receive a $13.5 million signing bonus and $26.5 million guaranteed. In one year, Jackson will make $16 million, and the contract can increase up to $44.5 million with incentives. 

Miami Dolphins will be hosting DL Lawrence Guy on a free agent visit, where the date has not been announced.