The Cleveland Browns went out and signed coordinator Ray Horton to turn around the NFL's 24th-ranked scoring defense. Now they need the horses for Horton's 3-4 scheme.
Offseason Forecast: Browns
With the offseason under way, Around The League examines what's next for all 32 teams. Marc Sessler hits the Browns. **More ...**
The Browns have contacted the agents of Baltimore Ravens linebackers Paul Kruger and Dannell Ellerbe, sources told The Plain Dealer's Mary Kay Cabot on Saturday.
Kruger, who had nine sacks during the regular season and 4.5 in the playoffs, is the more realistic prospect since the Ravens probably can't afford him. He's expected to command $9 million to $10 million per year, and Baltimore prepared for this scenario by drafting Courtney Upshaw in 2012.
Ellerbe, however, is a priority for the Ravens, and he wants to stay in Baltimore. The 27-year-old is expected to receive a significant offer from the team.
Signing either would be even sweeter for the Browns as they raid top players from an AFC North rival.
Follow Kareem Copeland on Twitter @kareemcopeland.