The Cleveland Browns continue to remain in contention for postseason play after defeating the Oakland Raiders in Week 8. There is a lot of hope surrounding the Browns' franchise at the moment and with a favorable schedule moving forward, they could be a real threat at the end of the season. The win certainly was not a pretty one for Cleveland, but a victory none the less. However, injuries hit hard for the Browns, which could force a trade in the coming 24 hours.
The Browns have less than a day to decide about picking up one more offensive weapon before the NFL Trade Deadline. The team has been getting by with the current players on the roster, but adding another target for Brian Hoyer could be the answer to playoff success. The move might become even more of a priority considering tight end Jordan Cameron is once again dealing with injuries.
Cameron left the Raiders' game with a concussion and did not return. Prior to the hit, the tight end had three catches for 40 yards. However, a helmet-to-helmet ended his day early and leaves him in doubt for the coming week. The concussion comes after a shoulder injury has kept the tight end limited on offense. Cameron is one of the biggest performers for the Browns and having him on and off the practice field has certainly taken a toll on the offense.
So what does Cleveland do? The Browns will get Josh Gordon back, but not until Week 12 meaning the only way to upgrade is via a trade in the next 24 hours. There are a lot of big names potentially available and Cleveland has the necessary assets to make a quality trade package depending on the name they want. There is someone on the roster that could get the team a big return. The Cleveland Plain Dealer speculates that if the Browns were to target someone like Larry Fitzgerald or Andre Johnson, offering up Johnny Manziel could do it.
Would the Texans take Manziel and another draft pick for Johnson? The wide receiver is not happy and Manziel is not playing. The quarterback has the potential to be good if he gets on the field. Houston offers that opportunity with Ryan Fitzpatrick struggling and Ryan Mallett in a contract year. Is the move likely? Not at all, but it is certainly something to consider before the trade deadline.
The Browns could easily try and get someone like Mike Williams or Ryan Broyles in a deal. Both receivers have been trying to find their place in the league and getting on with Cleveland could help. Not to mention both players would be cheap. If Cleveland wants to be serious about making the playoffs, a trade is the best move.
