The Cleveland Browns have two first-round draft picks and drama at the quarterback and wide receiver position. The team can take their offense in multiple directions as a result. General manager Ray Farmer made it clear the quarterback position would be taking priority for Cleveland as they eager to find the player that will stabilize the unit for years to come. He is not sure that is Johnny Manziel. As the Browns continue to be linked to draft trades for Marcus Mariota or Jameis Winston, what happens if those deals fail?
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns are serious about attempting to package their two first-round picks together for a jump up to grab Marcus Mariota. The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly eyeing the same move while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers need the former Oregon star as well. Winston is not likely worth the same jump. The Browns could use one of those draft picks for a deal for the Florida State quarterback, but the move is unlikely. Competition is high for Mariota, leaving every team searching for a Plan B just in case.
The Browns have Manziel on the roster and veteran Brian Hoyer waiting in the wings. The easy option is to simply re-sign Hoyer to a short-term contract and keep the rotation the same as it was in 2014. Neither party is opposed to that. However, Hoyer has made it clear he will only re-sign to the Browns if he is guaranteed the starting job. The veteran does not care to waste his time in a competition. With Manziel going nowhere, the chances Hoyer returns are merely 50-50.
The free agent pool of quarterbacks leaves a lot to be desired. Ryan Mallett would be an option alongside Mark Sanchez and Colt McCoy. All three quarterbacks saw some success in 2014, but enough to be considered a long-term option in Cleveland. A trade could be the best option for the team.
NJ.com reports that the Eagles are willing to listen to deals for Nick Foles as they attempt to chase Mariota. The St. Louis Rams have shown interest for Sam Bradford insurance. The Browns could easily do the same. Foles is a pocket passer and very different from Manziel, but can be very successful when surrounded with the right weapons. The only other quarterback available in a trade could be Jay Cutler and his contract is not the ideal pickup.
Cleveland has a lot of options in front of them. It is clear they do not trust Manziel to bring the right amount of success, but it is uncertain who the better option for 2015 and beyond is.
