In a relatively unsurprising move, the Jets traded former first-rounder Calvin Pryor to the Browns last week. The safety’s tenure in New York ended up being a disappointment, as the Louisville product compiled only 129 tackles, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles through three seasons with the organization.
Now, Pryor has a fresh start in Cleveland, where he could realistically slot in as a starter. The 24-year-old is set to hit free agency following this season, so perhaps we’ll begin to see Pryor show more of his worth as he looks to cash in.
The safety sat down with Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot to discuss his hectic week. The whole article is worth checking it, but we’ve compiled some of the notable quotes below…
On his apparent demotion by the Jets:
“I can’t really speak on too much of that. That’s in the past…One thing I know — I can play football. It’s about being in the right situation and then going about things the right way.”
His feelings on the Jets organization:
“I mean, don’t get it twisted now. I had some great times in New York. My years that I was there, I really enjoyed playing football. It’s just a blessing to be in the NFL period, so it doesn’t really stop here. I’m looking forward a fresh start, having an opportunity to play with the Cleveland Browns. That’s what I’m looking forward to the most.”
His reactions to getting traded to Cleveland:
“I feel like it was a great opportunity – have a fresh start, learn a new system and buy into a new culture. I had a feeling [with the Jets] drafting two safeties, but I can’t control that. I’m excited. I can’t thank (the Browns) enough.”
On whether he’ll play alongside rookie Jabrill Peppers:
“I can’t speak on that because that’s the coaches’ job, but I do know that (Peppers) is one heck of a player. I do look forward to playing with him, whether it’s in different packages or we’re just on the field at the same time. I know that we both can play football. I look forward to being a great teammate and helping him out along the way.”
I could see Pryor starting at SS and Peppers starting at FS, unless they don’t want to rush Peppers to start and this was a way to give him a year to develop. We will just have to wait and see, but either way I think the Browns days as NFL bottom dwellers are numbered and now that role goes to the 49ers and the Bears
I’ve seen a lot of speculation about either Peppers or Pryor making a Mark Barron-type move to linebacker, and I could see something like that too even if it’s only in certain formations
Don’t forget that the Jets are down there in the bottom dwellers club. I don’t want them to feel left out
It is kind of a sign of times changing when getting traded to the Browns is likely a step up
Gregg Williams will find a spot for him, and get out of him what the Jets couldn’t.