Browns Reportedly Signing Karl Joseph Eliminates Pressing Need at Safety

The Cleveland Browns needed a safety in the worst way after the subpar year Damarious Randall put together last season, and they have poached a former first-round pick from the Las Vegas Raiders in order to fill that hole.

Former Raiders first round pick Karl Joseph agreed to a one-year contract with Kevin Stefanski's Browns, where he is expected to assume a starting role.

Former #Raiders safety Karl Joseph is signing with the #Browns, source said. It’s a 1-year deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 19, 2020

Joseph was a first team All-Big 12 selection at West Virginia before Reggie McKenzie took him 14th overall in 2016. Joseph record 236 tackles, three sacks, and four interceptions over his four years in Oakland. Joseph has solid zone coverage range, but he pairs that with the ability to play as a box safety and stop the run.

The main obstacle that has prevented Joseph from taking that next step is his health. He has never played 16 games in a full season, and he has managed just 22 games over the last two seasons.

I'm told S Karl Joseph has agreed to terms with the #Browns, per source.
— ig: josinaanderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 19, 2020

Joseph needs a bounce-back season after struggling to stay on the field. When he's healthy, he's a heat-seeking missile on the football field, and that mindset from a safety will fit well in Joe Woods' defense.