Changes are coming for the Cleveland Browns which could mean the departures are several big-named players. The Browns did more this season than many expected and with two first-round draft picks to work with in 2015, big things could be in the works for Cleveland, but that will start with being smart in the offseason. In need of upgrades at the quarterback and wide receiver position, could the first moves made involve Johnny Manziel and Josh Gordon?
Head coach Mike Pettine admitted the Browns were at a crossroad with wide receiver Josh Gordon. Despite having two first-round draft picks in 2014, the Browns did not make a move for a top wide receiver in the form of Sammy Watkins or Mike Evans. That decision backfired with Gordon was promptly suspended for almost the entire 2014 season. That left starting quarterback Brian Hoyer to make something out of nothing with his wide receivers which did not always pan out. Gordon returned but failed to make an impact and then ended his season with another suspension.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Gordon is not guaranteed a return in 2015. Yes, the wide receiver is a threat on the field, but he has barely been seen because of off-the-field issues. The suspension to end the year could have been the final straw for the Browns who are looking at all options for the wide receiver.
"It's not the ability, but at some point you get tired of using the word potential,'' Pettine said, via Cleveland.com. "This offseason for him puts him squarely in a crossroads with us. Clearly a disappointing way for him to end the year. But at the same time, Josh right now is a Cleveland Brown. We want to take care of our own, but at the same time we're going to hold our guys accountable. I think everybody recognizes the talent that's there, but this isn't an individual sport."
The same is being said for Manziel who has suffered his share of off-the-field issues which include rumors of heavy partying and missing team responsibilities. The coaching staff was clearly not happy with the rookie at the end of the season which could factor into his future with the team. General manager Ray Farmer is looking at bringing Brian Hoyer back for another few seasons which could either mean that Manziel is sent back to the bench or traded sometime around the NFL Draft. The trade market is likely weak for Manziel given his small sample size of NFL experience, but the Browns could work something out for teams who miss out on some of the top picks.
