Browns To Sign Brian Hartline: Grades and Analysis

Nov 13, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) tackles Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brian Hartline (82) in the first quarter of the game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Gordon is on his way out and behind him is a virtual wasteland on the depth chart when it comes to wide receivers for the Cleveland Browns.  Everybody knows they need help and will probably use both NFL free agency and the Draft to add depth.  Their prediction started to come true when they reached an agreement on a deal with Brian Hartline.

This really isn’t a big surprise.  Hartline was one of the top names available in a field that is dwindling fast.  Cleveland had interest in the 28-year old from the moment the Miami Dolphins cut him.  In terms of being a solution nobody should think the veteran is enough to offset the Browns’ problems at the position but his experience and particular skill set will prove most helpful.

Last season he only had 39 catches for 474 yards and two touchdowns but prior to that posted back-to-back years of over 1,000 yards.  He is known for being an excellent route runner with deceptive speed and the toughness for going across the middle.  There isn’t much wow factor to his game but he is very dependable and known for being a consummate teammate and locker room leader.

Grade:  C+

If this is the only free agent addition the Cleveland Browns are going to make then this is the grade it deserves.  Brian Hartline will help their receiving corps but only if they get more talent around him so he can do what he does best, which is create mismatches.  Whether it’s Josh McCown or Johnny Manziel, they will know they can look to him on 3rd down.