The Cleveland Browns are facing an opportunity with the recent waiver of safety Adrian Amos by the New York Jets. Despite initial skepticism about the authenticity of the news, it is a genuine chance for the Browns to enhance their roster.
Amos, a seasoned safety, spent four years with the Chicago Bears before joining the Green Bay Packers on a lucrative four-year, $36 million deal. However, this offseason, he signed a more modest deal worth $1.75 million with the Jets after they lost Chuck Clark to a season-ending knee injury.
The Jets decided to move Amos down the depth chart to focus on developing young safeties amid their challenging season. Recognizing his desire to contribute and compete for a postseason opportunity, Amos requested his release, making him available for other teams.
With 264 snaps played this season, Amos has demonstrated continued productivity. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he currently ranks as the 21st best safety in the league for the year, boasting a forced incompletion rate of 20%, which ties for 11th place.
Acquiring Amos would involve taking on a fully guaranteed $347,222 for the remainder of the season, just slightly above the league average. Given the Browns’ current safety depth chart and the loss of Rodney McLeod, who provided versatility in playing three safeties, adding Amos could significantly bolster the team’s defensive capabilities.
The move is deemed a no-brainer by some, as it provides defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz the option to use six defensive backs when cornerback Denzel Ward returns. This flexibility could prove vital for the defense, allowing them to remain adaptable rather than relying on additional linebackers per snap, as observed in recent games.
While there might be competition from other teams on the waiver wire, the Browns are urged to consider claiming Amos. This move aligns with their previous interest in him during free agency and could serve as an ideal in-season backup following the loss of McLeod. Though roster adjustments may be necessary, the potential benefits of adding Amos to the team outweigh the associated considerations, making it a prudent strategic move for the Browns.
