There are several possible trade targets as the Cleveland Browns enter the offseason with plenty of questions at wide receiver, defensive line, and even kicker. Addressing these during free agency and the draft is vital. Remember that the organization was touted to have one of the best rosters entering the 2021 season, then finished with a dismal 8-9 record and no repeat of their preceding season’s playoff performance. They must get their roster right and hope this time, it will pay off.
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Possible Trade Targets for the Cleveland Browns
Despite the disappointments of the 2021 season, it seems like Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski are the right people to right the Browns ship. Berry’s talent evaluation has always been top-notch and Stefanski has a calming demeanor about him that is more advantageous to his team than not.
Dawuane Smoot – Defensive End
If the Jacksonville Jaguars take Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux in the first round of the draft, Dawuane Smoot may become available. Since 2017, he has developed into a solid rotational pass rusher. He has recorded at least 5.5 sacks in each of the past three years, 17.5 in total. Working across from Myles Garrett would be ideal, and even if Jadeveon Clowney was brought back in, Smoot would be a valuable piece in a defensive line that needs improvement.
Myles Jack – Linebacker
In 2021, Cleveland’s defense took strides in the right direction. Myles Jack would significantly improve the Browns roster. He has had 513 tackles, 6.5 sacks, three picks, and 15 pass defenses in six seasons in the NFL. Cleveland can benefit from a middle linebacker who can do what Jack can do. Together with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Jacob Phillips, the linebacking corps would be something to marvel at.
Chris Godwin – Wide Receiver
As the wide receiver comes off a major ACL injury, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are letting Chris Godwin try out free agency. The Browns need some upgrades at wide receiver. Without Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry being a cap casualty, Donovan Peoples-Jones could be the number one receiver. Peoples-Jones had a stellar performance early in 2021 before declining, but it is hoped he can pick himself back up. Through 14 games, Godwin finished with 98 receptions, 1,103 receiving yards, and five touchdowns with the Bucs. When it comes to speed, there is always a risk that Godwin may be a step slower now. However, Godwin still has talent and would be valuable in the Browns passing attack.
Wil Lutz – Kicker
Trading kickers isn’t a common move in the NFL, but Cleveland has been in a continual state of need for a reliable one. Seeing the Cincinnati Bengals draft a tremendously accurate kicker who ultimately took them to the AFC Conference Final and the Super Bowl, it is more obvious than ever just how dire the situation is for the Browns. Chase McLaughlin started the season 9-for-9, then from week 7 only six-of-12, missing a kick every week. Wil Lutz is one of the best in the game and has been clutch on many occasions. With $5.5 million against the cap, would save Cleveland money. In his career, he has converted on 86.6% of his career field goals.
There are obviously several areas in which the Browns need to make upgrades and many more possible trade targets than the ones mentioned here. Berry needs to get the roster right, and it will be interesting to see if he can this time around.
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