AFC North Notes: Bengals, Browns, Ravens, Steelers

Bengals

• Albert Breer of SI.com writes with the draft over, there could be some notable veterans released in the coming days. With this in mind, Breer says to keep an eye on Bengals QB Andy Dalton and his status with the team.
• ESPN’s Bill Barnwell thinks the Bengals will end up releasing Dalton outright, as his $17.5 million salary is far too much for a backup and Dalton would likely rather test the market than restructure. 
• Bengals claimed LB Austin Calitro off waivers from the Jaguars. (NFLTR)
• Bengals claimed RB Samaje Perine off waivers from the Dolphins. (NFLTR)
• Bengals signed 10 undrafted free agents. (NFLTR)

Browns

After winning rookie of the year in 2018, 2019 was rough for Browns QB Baker Mayfield. His completion percentage dropped under 60 percent and he threw 21 interceptions as the Browns stumbled through a disappointing season. With a new head coach and general manager on board, though, Mayfield is looking to rebound in his third season. 

“I can assure you there’s nobody who’s more focused and determined to put last year behind him and take a step forward than him,” Browns GM Andrew Berry said via Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “We’re excited about the environment that we’ve created around that position and around that room in general, and we really do expect him to have a fantastic year. I know Kevin and the staff have done a really nice job with the virtual offseason so far, implementing the new system and we think that he’ll be able to thrive in it this season.”

• ESPN’s Bill Barnwell mentions the Browns could clear $3 million in salary by releasing CB Terrance Mitchell, who could be as low as Cleveland’s fourth cornerback in 2020. 
• ESPN’s Jake Trotter reports Browns WR Rashard Higgins turned down a higher offer for a deal worth $910,000 to compete for the No. 3 job with the Browns. 
• The Browns signed undrafted Baylor CB Jameson Houston to a rookie deal that includes $60,000 guaranteed and a $10,000 signing bonus. (Aaron Wilson)

Ravens

• ESPN’s Bill Barnwell says the addition of multiple receivers in the draft likely pushes Ravens WR Jaleel Scott off the team. 
• Barnwell adds that the pick of J.K. Dobbins means the Ravens would have to carry four running backs if they plan to keep all of Mark Ingram, Justice Hill and Gus Edwards.
• Ravens signed G D.J. Fluker. (NFLTR)
• Ravens exercised CB Marlon Humphrey‘s fifth-year option. (NFLTR)

Steelers

• ESPN’s Bill Barnwell says the Steelers’ additions at wide receiver could leave Deon Cain and Ryan Switzer fighting for one roster spot. 
• Steelers exercised LB T.J. Watt’s fifth-year option. (NFLTR)