The Cleveland Brown's Offseason: An Evaluation of Mankok's Moves

Affectionately known as "Mankok", the pairing of Coach Eric Mangini and General Manager George Kokinis has done what I hoped it would do—it has stirred things up.

Although some of their moves have been somewhat questionable, they don't seem fearful that they will upset their players or the Browns fans.

They know what they want to do and are doing it—simple as that.

However, since "Mankok" have made so many moves, I think these moves should be detailed and graded.

Here are my grades:

TE Kellen "KW2" Winslow: B-

"KW2" was traded to Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a second-round pick—50th overall—and will be the 2010 fifth-round pick.

In 2008, "KW2" was the Browns' best offensive weapon, but he came with baggage.

He was constantly hurt and always had an attitude. I believe that "Mankok" should have pushed for a first-round pick; however, they got a good pick nonetheless.

If "Mankok" had gotten both the first-round and fifth-round pick, their grade would have been an A-.

S Mike Adams: C

Adams was re-signed to a three-year contract.

Many might not realize that Adams is very important player. Between Sean Jones and Brodney Pool, there were a total of five missed games in which Adams had to fill-in for them.

He played in a total of 14 games and was on many special teams.

He isn't a starter, but he is a player the Browns need.

TE Robert Royal: A-

Royal was signed to a four-year contract.

There are many reasons why this move was a great one.

With Winslow being traded to the Buccaneers, Steve Heiden recently coming back from surgery, Darnell Dinkins being a free-agent, and Martin Rucker being inexperienced, this move was very smart.

Though widely underrated, "Mankok" deserves credit for coming-up with it.

DL C.J. Mosley: C

Mosley signed to a two-year contract.

Here's another underrated move.

Though it does not compare to the signing of Royal, it was a smart move. 

Shaun Rogers may be a pro-bowler, but he's no "every-down player." Having Mosley on the team, will give Rogers a much needed breather.

DB Hank Poteat: C

Poteat was signed to a undisclosed contract.

Eric Wright and Brandon McDonald are entering their third NFL season, but they still have a lot to learn. Wright and McDonald can learn from Poteat's extensive experience and knowledge.

Poteat is better than some of last season's signs—just look at Travis Daniels.

LB/DE David Bowens: C-

Bowens was signed to a four-year contract.

He's another player with depth. Bowens can play both as an inside and outside linebacker and as a defensive end.

Though he is versatile, he's nothing special. However, he will get some playing time, unless he gets injured.

WR Joe Jurevicius: D

Jurevicius was released.

I haven't heard "Mancock's" reasons for this move.

Jurevicius showed his dedication to the team by rehabbing his knee injury, even though he could have retired with no questions asked.

Either "Mankok" made a mistake or Jurevicius was asking for a new contract and too much money.

OT Kevin Shaffer: C+

Shaffer was released.

This cut makes a lot more sense.

Shaffer was a decent player who committed a lot of holding penalties. Releasing Shaffer was smart on Mankok's part.

Though Shaffer's departure leaves the RT position open, it shouldn't be hard to fill.

With Shaffer's inconsistent playing style gone, the Browns' offensive line will be more productive.

LB Eric Barton: B+

Barton was signed to an undisclosed contract.

Though it is probable that Barton is only a stop-gap until the Browns acquire a new linebacker, this move was great.

Barton fills a big hole in the ILB, therefore, the Browns have one less thing to worry about.

I should also mention that Barton led the NY Jets in tackles (119). With his 119 tackles and D'Qwell Jackson's 154 tackles, the Browns ILB's will be something other teams should worry about.

OG Floyd Womack: C+

Womack was signed to an undisclosed contract.

With Joe Thomas and Eric Steinbach, the Browns' offensive line is set on the left side.  Womack is looking to play on the right side.

If Womack were to play RG, Rex Hadnot would be able to move to the center and give the line an upgrade. Hank Fraley is good, but Hadnot is better.

The Browns offensive line just got better.

OT John St. Clair: C+

St. Clair was signed to a three-year contract.

Now that Shaffer is gone, St. Clair likely will start. Actually, even if Shaffer were still on the team, St. Clair would probably start.

This was a good pickup for the Browns.

With Thomas at LT, Steinbach at LG, Hadnot at C, Womack at RG, and St. Clair at RT, the offensive line is close to being solid.

RB Noah Herron: C

Herron was signed to an undisclosed contract.

Herron hasn't played since 2006, but his numbers were good enough that he was considered to be a viable backup RB.

In 2009, Herron will probably have some playing time in half-back screens.

Also, he had 29 receptions for 211 yards, so he's a receiving threat.

DB Corey Ivy: C

Ivy was signed to an undisclosed contract.

Just like Poteat, Ivy was signed to help Wright and McDonald.  With his experience and knowledge, he will help solidify the CB position.  Unless the Browns acquire a starting corner, they should be set with the CB position.

WR David Patten: B-

Patten was signed to an undisclosed contract.

With Stallworth's legal issues and Jurevicius being cut, this move deserves a lot of credit.

Yes, Patten is old and was injured for most of last year, but the Browns didn't have much choice.

He has had some good seasons in the past and he might be a better player then his salary suggests. It is also possible that Patten could be the No. 2 receiver for the Browns next season.

Overall, I think the best moves were the signing of Royal and Barton. They're impact players and will make a big difference.

The only move I disagree with is the release of Jurevicious—and that is only because of "Mankok's" reasons for doing it.

Other than that, I believe that the Browns offseason is going well—not great, but well.  

It is obvious that "Mankok" is making moves.  I think that the Browns might sign one or two more players before the end of the draft.

In any case, I'm very excited about the draft and can't wait for the 2009 season to come.