Franchise Tag for Dawson Makes Sense

Finally, something to be happy about with the Browns this offseason. The other day, the Cleveland Browns placed the franchise tag on kicker Phil Dawson.

I, for one, think this is a terrific move. Sure, many will look at this and think it's silly to waste such a think on a mere kicker.

Let's be honest ... who else deserves the franchise tag?

Since 1999, Phil Dawson is the Cleveland Browns. He's the only player remaining from that inaugural reincarnation season.

And, throughout the misery of seasons since, he's been a constant bright spot for this struggling franchise.

I've made the argument before that Phil Dawson is the MVP of this team since 1999. As I said in that previous post:

Phil Dawson has had a direct impact on more wins since 1999 than any other player. It's not even close. Hell, Dawson already ranks third on the all-time Browns scoring leaders and his 2007 (120 points) and 2008 (108 points) rank in the top 10 best single-season scoring (Nos. 2 and 9, respectively).

Not convinced this is a good move? Check out my season-by-season breakdown of Dawson's contributions here.

A team that has seen as much turmoil as the Browns have since 1999, a team that has had a revolving door on the offices in Berea, a team that is starting over yet again — what that team needs is one solid constant. A proven winner. A proven leader. A fan favorite.

Even if he is a kicker.

We're glad to have you aboard, Phil. Keep up the good work.

Go Browns!