Browns Encouraged to “Go After” Former Commanders’ Initial Tight End
The Washington Commanders released tight end Logan Thomas on March 1, and the veteran has yet to secure a new team. At 32 years old, Thomas is coming off a season where he tallied 496 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games, indicating he still holds value. With Thomas still available, Joe Tansey of Bleacher Report has encouraged the Cleveland Browns to pursue him.
“Injuries have plagued Thomas’ career in recent seasons with the Washington Commanders. It’s unlikely he’ll reach the impressive numbers he posted in 2020 when he recorded 72 receptions, 670 yards, and six touchdowns,” Tansey wrote in his May 6 column discussing potential free agent targets for the Browns post-draft. “Nevertheless, if he’s healthy, he could provide a solid second or third option for the Browns offense, particularly across the middle.”
“Cleveland lacks sizable wide receivers, so there’s pressure on Njoku to perform in that role. Akins is primarily used for blocking and red-zone situations. If Thomas is signed, there could still be room for him on the roster. However, the Browns must ensure Thomas can endure a full season before taking a risk, even with a one-year contract.”
The Decision to Release Logan Thomas
The Washington Commanders saved $6.54 million by releasing Thomas, as reported by John Keim of ESPN. Despite being one of the most utilized pass catchers on the team last season, ranking fourth in receiving yards and third in targets, his impending 33rd birthday in July rendered him “expendable.”
“Thomas joined Washington during the 2020 offseason and established himself as a versatile tight end. In his debut season with Washington, he recorded a career-high 72 receptions for 670 yards and six touchdowns,” Keim noted on March 1. “Originally drafted as a quarterback by Arizona in 2014, Thomas transitioned to tight end with Detroit in 2016. He amassed 184 catches with Washington, including 55 in the most recent season.”
“With a new coaching staff and considering his age, coupled with the financial savings, Thomas became dispensable.”
The Commanders secured his replacement this offseason by signing Zach Ertz to a one-year, $5 million deal. Ertz only played in seven games during the 2023 season due to injuries. However, in his last fully healthy season in 2021, he posted 763 yards and five touchdowns. At 33 years old, the California native is a three-time Pro Bowl selection with a career that began in 2013 with the Philadelphia Eagles.
