CLEVELAND — One the same day that the team introduced its big free agent signing, Paul Kruger, the Browns also confirmed it had signed DT Desmond Bryant, the former Oakland Raider and linebacker Quentin Groves, a former Arizona Cardinal.
Kruger was introduced to the media and held up the number 99 jersey. He signed a five-year contract that is worth a reported $40 million.
Kruger brought his parents, Paul and Jennifer, with him, and joked to this reporter, “They have been with me all the way, even back to my birth.”
It was a big day for the former Utah gridder who played his first four years with the Baltimore Ravens.
Yes, those Ravens. The Super Bowl Champs.
Kruger said in the news conference the experience he had with many All Pro players on the defense was invaluable.
“I was able to learn a lot from them, from work ethic to character, the way they handled themselves in the meeting room and practice, how competitive you are. I had a great experience there,” he said.
Kruger is coming off a season when he had 4.5 sacks in the playoffs and played a key part in helping the Ravens win the Lombardi Trophy. He wants to grow as a player.
“I think just gaining experience in the NFL, and being around great leaders, and developing as a player,” he said.
Rob Chudzinski said he envisions Kruger as an every down player, and it’s expected Kruger will see time at outside linebacker and also at defensive end.
Quite simply, the team is banking on Kruger to do a lot.
Talking about what his role will be, Kruger said, “I think that’s something that Coach (Chudzinski) and I and Coach Horton will figure out. From what I understand, it will be pretty similar.”
Did Kruger benefit from having Terrell Suggs on the field with him and how did Kruger react to those who think he was only in the shadows of great players like Suggs?
“I think leaving Baltimore gives you the opportunity to step out of a couple of shadows. I don’t think that’s a negative thing. Terrelle Suggs, Ray Lewis, Haloti Ngata … those are guys who are like brothers to me. Regardless of what was talked about on TV during our games, during our games, Suggs is on the other side and I’m worried about what is in front of me,” Kruger offered.
Kruger said he can’t wait to get to work and I am sure the feeling is mutual from the Browns brass and its coaching staff.
Also on Wednesday, the team announced it has signed free agent tight end Gary Barnidge, formerly of the Carolina Panthers.
Jordan Norwood and Christian Yount signed their tenders and will return.
Chris Ogbonnaya signed a two-year deal with the Browns.
Browns CEO Joe Banner declined to answer a question about the status of kicker Phil Dawson.
