NFL Notes: Darius Butler, Broncos, Browns, Chiefs, Steelers

Darius Butler

Colts free agent CB Darius Butler mentioned that he would like to begin transitioning to safety at this point in his career.

“I’m just a football player,” Butler said, via Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star. “But to be 100 percent honest with you, I would like to transition to safety at this point in my career.”

It’s interesting to hear Butler admit this right before testing the free agent market, given that cornerbacks tend to make more than safeties and there are several notable safeties available in this year. However, it probably makes sense for him to be honest and upfront with teams if he’s really committed to a position change.

We have him featured in our Top 100 – 2017 Free Agents list.

Broncos

• According to Troy Renck, the Broncos haven’t ruled out re-signing LT Russell Okung, despite declining his option a few weeks ago.
• As for free agent guard targets, Renck mentions Kevin Zeitler, Ronald Leary and T.J. Lang as some names worth watching in the coming days.

Browns

• Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that the Browns were “blown away” by Texas A&M DE/OLB Myles Garrett’s Combine performance.
• According to Cabot, the Browns are close to making Garrett the No. 1 overall pick due to his interview and impressive workout.

Chiefs

• Adam Caplan reports that the $40 million guarantee Chiefs S Eric Berry received as part of his new six-year, $78 million contract includes $29.8 million fully guaranteed at signing.
• Berry stands to make $30 million in the first two seasons and $42.5 million over the first three years of the contract.

Steelers

• Jeremy Fowler of ESPN points out that the Steelers are taking a “calculated risk” by placing an original-round tender on CB Ross Cockrell.
• The Steelers are trying to save an extra $1 million they hoping that other teams won’t give up a fourth-round pick to sign Cockrell, who is a two-year starter a premium position.
• Fowler believes it’s a “mild surprise” Pittsburgh didn’t tender him at the second-round level and it’s possible they could be in the market for cornerback help if someone signs Cockrell to an offer sheet.