Browns next running mate alongside Myles Garrett could be a veteran in free agency

Cleveland Browns have a decision to make for the 2024 season that will impact Myles Garrett.

Za’Darius Smith is set to be a free agent, so the Browns will have the task of replacing Garrett’s running mate if Smith is not brought back.

One viable option is Tennessee Titans DE Denico Autry, who is coming off of a career year.

Why Denico Autry could be a fit for the Browns

Autry set a career-high in sacks (11.5) and tackles (50) and forced two fumbles with the Titans in 2023. At 33 years old, Autry has played 10 seasons in the NFL.

Bringing in another veteran, specifically one like Autry, has the chance to complement the edge room very well. You’re going to have the versatility to line up Autry at different points of the line, as well as continue to develop the younger players.

Alex Wright took a leap in year two and the same could happen with Isaiah McGuire next season. While Autry would be penciled in as the starter, he hasn’t always been that. Between time with the Raiders, Colts, and Titans Autry has started 89 of 142 games.

The snap count could perhaps split between Ogbo Okoronkwo and Autry, with McGuire and Wright offering depth behind them and Garrett.

How much would it cost to get Denico Autry in free agency?

Here at A to Z Sports, our cap experts project that Autry is going to receive a pretty affordable one-year deal. Since he is toward the back end of his career, it could be one-year deals from here on out for Autry.

• 1 Year, $9M, $9M APY, $6,000,000 GTD
• Year One Cap Hit: $9M

The Browns could swing a one-year deal to continue to build the edge room. Cleveland’s defense is built on the defensive line under Jim Schwartz, so the front office is always going to invest there.

Final word

Don’t be surprised if Autry and the Browns become connected in free agency. Whether it is just interest or signing happens, it is not going to be a surprise because it makes some sense for both sides. Autry would have the chance to join an attractive defense that could give him the chance to put up another nice season.