Could Browns target Geno Atkins if Sheldon Richardson doesn't return?
The Cleveland Browns have remade their defense during the 2021 offseason much in the way that they did the offense in the 2020 offseason. The biggest loss on the defensive side of the ball came when the Browns cut veteran DT Sheldon Richardson. As we shared this morning, a Richardson return has been discussed. Richardson may be waiting until closer to training camp to see if an injury opens up a spot, and a bigger contract, for him somewhere. The Browns added Malik Jackson to play the 3-technique defensive tackle that Richardson plays while Andrew Billings is expected to step into the 1-technique role Larry Ogunjobi played. Beyond Jackson, the Browns added Tommy Togiai in the 2021 NFL draft and signed Marvin Wilson as an undrafted free agent. If Richardson finds a better deal elsewhere, the Browns may be interested in adding another veteran to help at the 3-tech spot. The biggest name on the market is former Cincinnati Bengal Geno Atkins. Atkins has compiled 75.5 sacks during his career including three seasons with double digits. Last year, Atkins only played eight games and started none. His torn rotator cuff is healing with a July 1st being an important date coming up for him per Ian Rapoport:  Checking in on a top free agent: Ex-#Bengals All-Pro and Pro Bowl DT Geno Atkins has a checkup with #Cowboys team doctor Dan Cooper in a few weeks and is expected to be cleared from a torn rotator cuff by July 1, source said. Multiple teams remain interested. Hell be deliberate.  Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 4, 2021  Cooper is the doctor that performed Atkins surgery not likely a sign of him signing in Dallas as his fit in their new 3-4 defense is dubious. Brent Sobleski at Bleacher Report, who covered the Browns for years, noted the Browns as a team that could have interest in Atkins:  Even with these possibilities, the Browns arent set along their defensive interior. A steady veteran presence at a discounted price may be exactly what the franchise needs to complete its defensive overhaul. In the end, Sheldon Richardson and what kind of contract Atkins can demand will decide whether the Browns are interested in Geno Atkins. If Richardson moves on and Atkinss contract demands are reasonable, he could fit well for the Browns. Even if Richardson moves on, if Atkins demands a sizeable deal, the Browns will likely role with the group they have currently. Geno Atkins could be an interesting addition for the Browns but a few things would have to happen for that to come to fruition.