The subject line of this piece is an admitted understatement. But today's release by Phila of vet ILB Takeo Spikes factors, as well.
Spikes, as many fans have already acknowledged in various forums, would seem to be an ideal fit for what the club has needed for some time. He is a renown leader, physical hitter, relentless pursuer, with the spirited play that can lift a unit. Particularly as he'd be protected by the newly-infused big men up front and given leads to protect by an offense again expected to be potent, Spikes should not only flourish, but be wise enough to recognize this may be the best roster he's ever joined---assuming his acquisition comes to pass.
The Auburn product was drafted by Cinn, migrated to Buffalo in free agency and, prior to last season, was dealt to Philadelphia.
His release has been something for which I'd hoped once it became predictably apparent the options at ILB would again be few and uninspiring.
Though there are some who opine that an OLB is a more serious concern, an interior backer able to stand in against a run game and stone a ballcarrier in the hole is much too rare a sight. And it is something that must occur with some regularity if ever this Cleveland club is to be a legitimate NFL contender.
What is more, it is not inconceivable that the Browns may find a very talented prospect still available to them when finally they get to participate in draft weekend, scheduled for April 26 & 27. Round Four currently represents their first shot, and TCU's DE/OLB Tommy Blake could be there. This was a top ten projection going into summer camp, heralded for his burst against both the run and the pass, reflected in his many tackles for loss.
The Feb. 18 issue of The Sporting News details, in its cover story, the torments that have caused this youngster to have his NFL prospects compromised. Depression, possibly bi-polar disorder, weight-gain stemming from medication---these are among the afflictions suggested.
Were Blake to be paired opposite Kamerion Wimbley at OLB, the Browns would have the pass-rushing duo desired to fuel their 3-4 scheme for years to come.
A kid ILB to groom for the sledgehammer role, NT depth and an interior OL might well comprise the rest of that day's shopping, with picks 5-7.
But those details are many weeks away and for now the D retains precedence. Spikes' availability could be the most recent league gift.
Read the complete post at http://www.xanga.com/MALeonard/645811071/browns-defense-shaping-up-nicely.html