With news surfacing of Charles Johnson returning to Carolina with a long-term, big money contract, one of the most coveted free agents of 2011 may be have just been taken off the board. For teams seeking a defensive end, Johnson was one of the two most sought after at the position alongside former Minnesota Viking Ray Edwards.
It is being now reported by multiple credible sources that Cleveland is right at the top of Edwards' list for his next career move. Although the Browns certainly beefed up their defensive front with this April's draft, the move to new Defensive Coordinator Dick Jauron's 4-3 still leaves Cleveland with questions at defensive end. Edwards would provide an immediate answer at that spot, and would assuredly make Jauron's job a bit easier.
Nonetheless, it is possible that much of the speculation surrounding Edwards to Cleveland could be a tactic by Edwards camp to drive up the asking price so that another suitor, possibly the Eagles, would be pressured into giving him an even bigger pay day. Time will tell.
Here's a look at Edwards' career thus far:
Edwards is entering his 6th season out of Purdue. All five of his professional seasons have been played in Minnesota. He has produced at a steady rate while in the league, and has had 5 sacks or more in each of the last 4 seasons. With 26.5 total sacks through the last 4 seasons, he would provide an immediate boost to a team's pass rushing ability.
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