The Cleveland Browns released inside linebacker Karlos Dansby on Wednesday, in a move that is part of their continued re-building process. The Browns signed Demario Davis earlier in the day, so it only makes sense they would clear the cap space they don't need with Dansby.
The now free agent linebacker was not bitter about the move, recognizing the rebuilding that is going on in Cleveland. One reporter had a quotation from him in which he said, "I'm happy man, let's go get this ring." Dansby is 34 and nearing the end of his career, so it is no surprise he wants to try and find a playoff contender.
I had a couple people ask me if the 49ers should make a run at him. While they could use some help at inside linebacker, I can't see Dansby heading to Santa Clara this year. The team could be improved under Chip Kelly, but the decision to forego most everything in free agency could indicate a team looking at a rebuilding process. I say "could" because we really have no idea what to make of any of this.
Dansby remains a very solid ILB in coverage, but had some issues as part of the Browns overall run defense struggles. He worked with new 49ers defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil, but again, it is unlikely he would follow him to San Francisco. His previous DCs include the head coach of the New York Jets and the Cincinnati Bengals defensive backs coach. Those two make some sense for Dansby.