Paul Kruger, shown here sacking Colin Kaepernick in the Super Bowl, is a solid addition to the Browns already stout defense. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
The Cleveland Browns entered free agency Tuesday approximately $47 million under the salary cap, and didn’t waste any time spending by the fistful.
The Browns agreed to terms on a five-year, $40 million deal with outside linebacker Paul Kruger, who is a versatile defender with solid skills rushing the passer, defending the run and light enough feet to drop into coverage.
He’ll be a good fit for the Browns’ 3-4 defense under first-year coordinator Ray Horton.
With 4.5 sacks in the postseason, Kruger was vital in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl run. He also saved his best play for the ideal time — his first venture into unrestricted free agency.
Kruger, coveted by at least three teams, including the Ravens and Colts, was the Browns’ top priority in free agency. He has just 15.5 career sacks but wasn’t always used in a pass-rushing role.
The Browns are hopeful he can become that complete linchpin off the edge. They’ll try defensive end Jabaal Sheard at linebacker, but if he doesn’t make the transition, the Browns won’t have the multiple pass-rushing linebackers critical for making the scheme effective.
