With the way last season went for the Cleveland Browns, they are now being forced to keep all options open when it comes to the quarterback position. When the Browns' head coach Rob Chudzinski addressed the media at the NFL Combine, he hinted at the idea that trading a quarterback is not out of the question. Both Colt McCoy and starter Brandon Weeden have struggled at the position and the team is desperate for a new start.
"We have three guys here that provide competition and we'll leave it open to whatever happens in terms of any other possible scenarios. We're going to look at everything, every possible scenario," Chudzinski said.
Chudzinski expressed excitement over both quarterbacks. He believes both McCoy and Weeden have unique skill sets that can help the team in multiple ways. However, the Browns will not make any sort of decision until they can begin evaluating everyone.
While the Browns have not committed to a future starter for the team, Chudzinski does believe that new offensive coordinator Norv Turner can help improve Weeden as a quarterback. Cleveland has yet to come out and publicly endorse Weeden as the starting quarterback in Cleveland, leading many to believe they will attempt to trade him or draft someone else to be the face of the franchise. The team's front office remains uncommitted, stressing it will be a competition.
At 29, Weeden started all 15 games for the Browns last season, taking them to a 5-10 record. He completed 57 percent of his passes for 3,385 yards, throwing 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He was the No. 22 overall pick in last years draft, but his age does not bode well for him to be with the team long-term.
McCoy was the team's primary starter in 2011. In his 13 starts, the Browns went 4-9. He completed 57 percent for his passes for 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns. He only played in three games last season, compiling 17 passes.
The problem for Cleveland will be getting the most for their money. Sources believe there is not much value for Weeden or McCoy in the league. With no true starting quarterback in this years draft, the Browns could be forced to just release both quarterbacks and try and pick up someone in free agency.