Six games in, and the Cleveland Browns find themselves in solid shape at 4-2 overall in a congested AFC North race.
Though tied with the rival Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland is just one game behind the division-leading Baltimore Ravens. But to catapult themselves further, some new faces need to be added as the NFL’s trade deadline approaches on Halloween.
Already, there’s the report from ESPN NFL insider Jim Trotter on Oct. 24 that wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones is considered a trade target for teams, calling him “the only player potentially worth watching” who the Browns could move. But who are some appealing names the Browns could target?
Cleveland Browns Trade Deadline Moves
The Browns have $34,505,171 in cap space in 2023.
With that space, Cleveland can use that to add a veteran for cheap and doesn’t necessarily need to feel pressured to make a big swing. While the Browns have come off as an early playoff contender, this team suddenly does have needs, particularly behind center at both quarterback and running back.
MORE: Cleveland Browns Depth Chart
Deshaun Watson’s recent shoulder injury plays a role in this idea. Cleveland is also dealing with lead running back Nick Chubb being out since Week 2 with his season-ending ailment. All the more reason these three names could appeal to the Browns.
Jacoby Brissett, QB, Washington Commanders
Why not return to a familiar face who has been in this situation before?
PJ Walker has handled his own in taking over behind center. However, he didn’t throw a single touchdown in his last two starts, including in the 39-38 shootout win over the Indianapolis Colts.
And, in the 19-17 upset over the San Francisco 49ers, he threw two interceptions and didn’t even complete a pass on the final game-clinching drive. Lastly, Walker didn’t even surpass 193 passing yards in his wins.
For a team aiming to stay in the race for the AFC North title, it’s best to consider someone with a plethora of experience — one with familiarity with head coach Kevin Stefanski and this offense.
At 30 and as a longtime NFL journeyman, Jacoby Brissett wouldn’t be considered a bank-breaking move on the Browns’ end. He’d give Cleveland more assurance moving forward as Watson gets healthier.
Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans
No, he’s not the terror out of the backfield he once was. His days of being a 2,000-yard threat appear to be waning.
But, at his age, Derrick Henry can be a suitable hard-nosed, change-of-pace option. And here, he could add some years as he nears the sunset of his career.
MORE: AFC North Trade Candidates
Post-Chubb, Cleveland still ranks eighth in rushing yards. But Kareem Hunt will likely need help moving forward. Why not form a powerful duo with Henry and, in the process, keep Henry fresh for when the Browns need a lift in short-yardage and goal-line situations?
Jerry Jeudy, WR, Denver Broncos
In returning to the topic of Peoples-Jones possibly being moved, the Browns would need to find an immediate replacement for this late push.
While Cedric Tillman is considered waiting in the wings, he only has one catch for five yards. Plus, with only four total receiving touchdowns, the Browns need immediate receiver help.
And Jeudy, plain and simple, needs a change of scenery. He’s enduring season lows in average yards per catch at 11.4 and has zero touchdowns catching passes from past Super Bowl winner Russell Wilson. Furthermore, he’s been the target of criticism for not distancing himself as a WR1 after being a first-round selection.
Peoples-Jones and post-Day 1 draft assets for Jeudy could be perceived as an even swap. Jeudy wouldn’t be considered a No. 1 receiving option immediately on a team with Amari Cooper. But Jeudy could benefit from a change of address — and Cleveland gives him a shot at rejuvenation.
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