Earlier this week, the Cleveland Browns released wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from his contract.
The three-time Pro Bowl wideout had the final two years of his contract terminated upon leaving.
That being said, the Browns wasted little time and already used the cap relief to help themselves.
The organization announced that they’ve signed right guard Wyatt Teller to a four-year extension.
Browns, G Wyatt Teller reach agreement on a four-year contract extension worth $56.8 million. (via @MikeGarafolo + @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/eI8hhFsSgK
— NFL (@NFL) November 9, 2021
He’ll join a club of Myles Garrett and Nick Chubb of players getting signed long-term in Cleveland.
Although, Teller is unlikely the last Browns player to get a long-term deal from the organization.
There are quite a few players patiently waiting for their turn at an extension.
1. Baker Mayfield
We’ll get the most obvious answer out of the way first.
It seems like a no-brainer that quarterback Baker Mayfield deserves an extension.
However, it has been tough to pinpoint how much exactly he deserves from Cleveland.
The former No. 1 overall pick has been through his share of struggles in the NFL.
Although, Mayfield put together a tremendous 2020 campaign and led Cleveland to the playoffs.
He has struggled at times during 2021, but has shown flashes of being a great quarterback.
No OBJ ➡️ No problem
Donovan Peoples-Jones for a 60-yard touchdown from Baker Mayfield. The Browns passing game looks solid so far today.
🎥 @NFL pic.twitter.com/qDy2dNqFI4
— The Athletic NFL (@TheAthleticNFL) November 7, 2021
The fact of the matter is, Mayfield has been the Browns’ best quarterback in a very long time.
The 26-year-old has learned and become a better player during his four years in Cleveland.
He is well deserving of an extension, but finding the right number for both sides is going to be tricky.
2. Denzel Ward
There is no doubting the ability of defensive back Denzel Ward.
The former No. 4 overall pick has done plenty of wonderful things in a Browns uniform.
Sadly, Ward has never started more than 12 games in a single season.
The injuries continue to hold him back, but hopefully the 2021 season will be different.
Through eight games, Ward has 26 tackles, six passes defended, and one interception this season.
That one pick he registered was a beautiful 99-yard pick-six against the Cincinnati Bengals.
This angle of Denzel Ward’s 99 yard pick 6 is insane 🤩#Browns pic.twitter.com/hii9db22wE
— 𝘿𝙖𝙠𝙈𝙑𝙋 ✮ (@GoatedDak) November 8, 2021
It has been an up-and-down road for Ward, but the Browns shouldn’t dismiss him.
Ward is a legitimate No. 1 defensive back and they need to consider locking him up.
Yes, the injuries are concerning, but Ward deserves to get paid for what he has accomplished in Cleveland.
3. Anthony Walker
Both the first two players probably didn’t surprise anyone.
However, linebacker Anthony Walker deserves an extension as much as them.
The 26-year-old has done nothing but succeed since joining the Browns.
Through six games, Walker has 57 tackles, one sack, and two passes defended in 2021.
He has already recorded three games with 10 tackles or more this season.
Walker has been an impact player for this defense and is on a one-year deal.
#Browns sign LB Anthony Walker to a 1-year deal worth $3.5 million, per league source. #NFL #NFLTwitter
— Daily Football Zone (@DailyFZ) March 19, 2021
He has put together multiple successful seasons as a member of the Indianapolis Colts.
Walker was arguably the biggest steal of the offseason for the Browns.
He is a leader on defense and is someone who is above average at his position.
To be honest, Walker would be perfect to have alongside these younger linebackers long-term.
What Walker brings to the Browns should not be overlooked and hopefully, he’ll get an extension from the organization this offseason.
NEXT: 5 Receivers Browns Could Target In The 2022 Draft
