Cornelius Lucas

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Cleveland locked up a depth piece at bargain-basement pricing, but Cornelius Lucas earns a D CVI that reflects the limited upside of this investment. At $0.9M AAV over four years, the Browns are paying replacement-level money for what amounts to replacement-level production from an unproven tackle who's struggled to establish himself as more than a swing option throughout his career. The contract structure heavily favors Cleveland with minimal guaranteed money ($0.1M), essentially making this a series of one-year prove-it deals disguised as multi-year security for Lucas. While the financial risk is negligible, the Browns are betting on developmental upside that simply hasn't materialized despite Lucas bouncing around multiple organizations over several seasons. This represents classic roster filler at the appropriate price point — decent value for a backup, but hardly the kind of move that transforms an offensive line or creates meaningful competition for starting spots.

Performance Analysis

Cornelius Lucas earns an F for the Browns at offensive tackle, a veteran swing tackle whose performance has declined to replacement level. Lucas has been beaten by NFL pass rushers with alarming frequency and provides minimal value in the run game. Cleveland's offensive line has been a disaster, and Lucas has been part of that dysfunction whenever he has been pressed into action. His age and declining physical tools make it unlikely he can turn things around. The Browns need to find better depth at tackle, because relying on Lucas is not a viable option.

Fan Sentiment

A routine but telling roster cut, releasing backup OT Cornelius Lucas after just one forgettable season. Five separate outlets covered the move, signaling mild but notable roster housekeeping by Cleveland. Lucas never cracked the starting lineup, confirming he was a depth piece that didn't pan out. Fans aren't mourning this cut, but it raises questions about Cleveland's offensive line depth heading into the offseason. The Browns must now identify a more reliable backup tackle to protect their quarterback effectively.