The Cleveland Browns have announced the signing of NFL veteran defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson to a new contract. The former second-round pick played for the Minnesota Vikings in the 2022 season but has also seen time with the New York Giants. He was a highly sought-after free agent and will bring his valuable experience to the Browns.
Strong 2022 Season
Dalvin Tomlinson had an impressive 2022 season, starting 13 games for the NFC North champions Minnesota Vikings. He recorded 2.5 sacks, 42 tackles, three tackles-for-loss, and 10 quarterback hits. The Vikings made the playoffs but lost to Tomlinson’s former team, the New York Giants, in the NFC Wild Card round.
Early Career
Dalvin Tomlinson was drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. The rookie made an immediate impact, starting all 16 games and recording one sack, 50 tackles, one tackle-for-loss, and one quarterback hit. He retained his starting role in 2018 and put up similar numbers to what he did as a rookie, finishing the season with no sacks, 59 tackles, five tackles-for-loss, and no quarterback hits.
In the final year of the Pat Shurmur Era, Tomlinson’s pressure numbers picked up. He recorded 3.5 sacks, 49 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, nine quarterback hits, and one forced fumble, starting and appearing in all 16 games for the third consecutive year. Under the third head coach of his New York tenure, Tomlinson maintained his usual efficiency in the 2019 season, starting all 16 games, and recording 3.5 sacks, 49 tackles, eight tackles-for-loss, and 10 quarterback hits.
Move to the Minnesota Vikings
After the 2019 season, Dalvin Tomlinson hit free agency and signed with the Minnesota Vikings. In the 2021 season, the interior lineman recorded 2.5 sacks, 39 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and seven quarterback hits, playing all 16 games.
Cleveland Browns Contract
The Browns were highly interested in Tomlinson as a free agent and landed him on the first day of free agency. He signed a four-year deal worth $57 million, with $27.5 million guaranteed. With his experience, size, and skills, Tomlinson will play a key role in the Browns defense.
What Tomlinson Brings to the Browns
Dalvin Tomlinson is a valuable asset to any defense, as his size, strength, and experience make him a force to be reckoned with on the interior line. He has excellent footwork and technique, enabling him to penetrate through the offensive line with ease. He’s a strong run defender, able to stack blocks against the run and create pressure against the pass. Tomlinson is also a skilled pass rusher and can disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm.
Moreover, Tomlinson’s leadership qualities and work ethic are traits that any team would be happy to have. He’s a diligent worker who puts in extra time in the film room and the weight room, always striving to improve his game. He’s always willing to help his teammates and takes pride in his role as a mentor to younger players.
The Browns Defense
The Browns defense is known for its physicality and tenacity, and Tomlinson will be an important piece of the puzzle. He’ll join a front seven that includes Myles Garrett, Jadeveon Clowney, and Malik Jackson, making the Browns one of the most formidable defenses in the league. The Browns will continue to rely on their aggressive, hard-hitting style of play to limit opposing offenses.
The AFC North
The AFC North is one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, and the Browns will have their work cut out for them. They’ll face the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, and Cincinnati Bengals, all of whom are notorious for their hard-nosed defense and explosive offenses. However, with Tomlinson in the mix, the Browns have a much better chance of shutting down their opponents and making a run for the playoffs.
The Road Ahead
Dalvin Tomlinson’s signing with the Cleveland Browns is a significant move for both the team and the player. The Browns are getting a stellar defender who will help them contend for a playoff spot, and Tomlinson gets to join a team with a winning culture and a dedicated fan base. With his experience and skills, Tomlinson will undoubtedly make an impact on the Browns defense and help elevate the team’s game.
Overall, the future looks bright for both the Browns and Tomlinson, and fans can’t wait to see what the new season will bring.