Free agency is winding down and some teams have done better than others. Over the next week we will grade out how each team did overall, including their losses and their additions. The AFC North has seen better days and the only team on the upswing is the Browns.
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Baltimore Ravens:
Key Additions: Steve Smith, WR
Key Departures: Arthur Jones, DE
Analysis: The Ravens could have been much worse off if they let Daryl Smith get away, but they kept the core intact. Losing one of the best in the business in Jones hurts, but drafting his replacement could have been the plan all along. I’m not thrilled with the Steve Smith signing due to the money, but he will serve his purpose and is an improvement on what the Ravens had at the position.
Grade: B-
Cincinnati Bengals:
Key Additions: Marshall Newhouse, OT
Key Departures: Michael Johnson, DE
Analysis: The Bengals are an interesting case because they didn't really do all that much. Losing the likes of Johnson and Andrew Hawkins will hurt, but they are in line to replace them with guys they have drafted. The defensive line would benefit greatly from Margus Hunt developing into a serviceable starter. The Bengals have bigger issues than free agency due to Andy Dalton’s playoff struggles.
Grade: D
Cleveland Browns:
Key Additions: Ben Tate, RB
Key Departures: T.J. Ward, S
Analysis: The Browns had their offseason go exactly as planned. They weren’t expected to retain Ward and I have had Tate penciled to the Browns for months now. The Browns are on the upswing and have have made some under the radar signings with Nate Burleson and Andrew Hawkins. If they happen to lose Alex Mack then the grade will drop seeing how Mack is one of the best at his position.
Grade: B
Pittsburgh Steelers:
Key Additions: Arthur Moats, LB
Key Departures: Emmanuel Sanders, WR
Analysis: Having no cap space is a terrible thing when you have an offensive like like the Steelers. The line has been miserable for years yet the Steelers don't have the means to improve it. Losing Sanders and bringing in Lance Moore hurts the receiver core, but Moats will be a sleeper signing that will pay dividends. The Steelers are a long ways away from being back in Super Bowl contention.
Grade: C
How would you grade the AFC North’s free agency moves? Tell us @SportsWN
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