With linebacker D’Qwell Jackson gone and the salary cap expected to hit $133 million for 2014, the Browns will enter the new league year with more than $50 million in cap space.
That number could go even higher.
Per a league source, defensive end Ahtyba Rubin likely will find himself in a salary squeeze under the new regime in Cleveland. A sixth-round pick in 2008, Rubin signed a four-year, $26.5 million contract in 2011. He enters the final season with a base salary of $6.6 million.
A full-time starter since 2010, Rubin appeared in 14 straight games after missing the first two of the season with a calf injury. He presumably could stay at a reduced rate. If he balks or if an agreement can’t be reached, Rubin could be gone.
