NFL free agency is off and running, and we’re keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2024 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts. The new league year begins Wednesday, which means free agent signings can be made official after that. The first round of the 2024 NFL draft begins April 25 on ESPN.
Here’s a breakdown of every 2024 NFL free agent signing by the Cleveland Browns and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Jameis Winston, QB
Winston agreed to a one-year deal with $4 million guaranteed, a $2.79 million signing bonus, $1.21 million base and up to $4.7 million available in incentives.
What it means: The Browns interestingly chose Winston over Joe Flacco to be Deshaun Watson’s backup, even though Flacco went 4-1 to end the 2023 regular season as the Browns clinched their first playoff berth since 2020. Winston is nine years younger. But Flacco was a fan favorite who demonstrated he could thrive with head coach Kevin Stefanski. Browns general manager Andrew Berry said he wasn’t concerned that a Flacco return might amp up the pressure on Watson going into a critical third season. If Watson had continued to struggle out of the gate, would the fan base have clamored for Flacco? That’s one thing Watson or Berry won’t have to worry about now.
What’s the risk: Is Winston an upgrade or downgrade over Flacco? Flacco led the league with 323 passing yards per game in his five regular-season starts with the Browns. Winston has just 10 starts combined since 2019, the season he threw 33 TDs and 30 INTs in his final year in Tampa Bay. Watson couldn’t stay healthy last year. If he gets banged up again, Cleveland’s season could hinge on whether Winston can match what Flacco accomplished last season.
