Free Agent Signing: CB TJ Carrie
The Browns continued their busy offseason by signing ex-Raiders CB, TJ Carrie. He was signed to a 4-year, $31 million contract, including $15.5 million in guarantees. The secondary was an issue for the Browns last year, but that was only one of many issues. He was added to the secondary along with Damarious Randall, who was traded to Cleveland from Green Bay on Friday and Terrance Mitchell, who was signed the same day as Carrie. TJ Carrie isn’t a name that most common fans would know but is someone that should be taken notice of.
Cleveland fans have fallen in love with the story of Jeff Green’s open-heart surgery now that he has become a Cavalier. In that case, it might be interesting to know that in 2006, TJ Carrie also had to receive open-heart surgery. He was diagnosed with a birth defect known as a coronary artery anomaly and had to decide whether to have the surgery or never perform physical activity again. As you may have guessed, he decided to undergo the surgery and is working to make the best out of his time.
TJ Carrie played for the famous De La Salle High School in California. If you have ever seen the movie, “When the Game Stands Tall,” then you would know about this school. He won a state championship with them and was even an honor roll student. He went on to play football for Ohio University, making him somewhat an Ohioan. Carrie had a solid career there and was drafted in the seventh round (219th overall) by the Oakland Raiders.
The 27-year-old has played four seasons with the Raiders and was their most consistent cornerback last year. He has only three interceptions in his career, but managed to have 70 tackles last year alone. Carrie has appeared in 60 games and started 34 of them. He has also been the Raiders punt returner in his first three seasons and was their kick returner in his rookie season. He wasn’t the greatest returner averaging only 7.4 yards per return and never returning one for a touchdown, but he at least brings some experience to the team. Last year, Pro Football Focus gave him an 84.3 rating, which they consider to be above average.
TJ Carrie may not be the biggest free agency signing, but he adds a lot of value and some experience to a struggling secondary. He will still need to prove that he can perform at a consistently high level and whether or not he can help to lead a young defense. He fits well in Cleveland and I look forward to watching him on Sundays. It is definitely a new day for the Cleveland Browns.
Image: ESPN
