BROWNS BRING IN VERNON FOR ZEITLER
The Cleveland Browns acquired defensive end/linebacker Olivier Vernon and a fourth-round draft pick in 2019 from the New York Giants for offensive guard Kevin Zeitler and a fifth-round draft pick in 2019.
What does it give the Cleveland Browns
For Cleveland, this trade upgrades one of their selections in this year's draft. It also adds another pass-rusher to the mix (to go along with Myles Garrett and Emanuel Ogbah). Vernon struggled as an outside linebacker in the Giants' 3-4 base defense but should bounce back as a defensive end with the Browns.
What does it give the New York Giants
The Giants downgraded one of their selections in this year''s draft, but this deal served two purposes for them: a) upgrade the offensive line, so Zeitler helps in a big way here, and b) shed Vernon's contract without having to release him. Zeitler will likely play right guard with the Giants. He is a major acquisition.
Fantasy impact
There is very little fantasy impact here, unless it pertains to the Giants' skill position players such as running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and veteran quarterback Eli Manning (assuming he remains the starter in 2019). All three players should benefit from Zeitler's presence along the O-line. As for Vernon, he is likely to play rotationally behind Garrett and Ogbah, so his sacks totals may never be great again.
