The Cleveland Browns are a bit of a mess at the moment. Johnny Manziel has entered a rehab program. Leading wide receiver Josh Gordon has been suspended for the upcoming season. Jordan Cameron has no interest in returning in free agency. That leaves a lot up in the air for the Browns who appeared to be heading in the right direction after a mildly successful 2014. With free agency and the NFL Draft just around the corner, the quarterback position is taking first priority in Cleveland.
The Cleveland Browns are hopeful that Manziel will be ready come time for training camp. The rookie quarterback entered a rehab program a week ago and the team announced they will support the quarterback through this time. However, that does not mean they are not looking to add to the rotation incase Manziel is not ready to play. With Brian Hoyer hitting free agency, Manziel is the lone quarterback that could start, but even that is a little dicey.
According to Jason Cole of Bleacher Report, the Browns are very serious about trading up Marcus Mariota. The report matches the previous ones that have surfaced since the Oregon star announced he will forego his senior year and enter the draft. It is looking like there is truth to the idea simply because the Browns have stated their desire to continue searching for quarterbacks and their two first-round picks make a move up very doable.
Cole writes that Mariota is the No. 1 target for the team, but Jameis Winston could be considered if the first deal fails. Cleveland has the No. 12 and 19 pick overall and could package them together in order to move up to the top spot. There is competition for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' pick as the Philadelphia Eagles continue to get linked to deal as well.
While the Browns workout a possible draft trade, a contract for Hoyer will be a priority. General manager Ray Farmer said the door is open for the veteran quarterback to return to the team, but Hoyer's agent said he only will if he is guaranteed the starting job. With Manziel out, that starting job is Hoyer's for the taking. Getting the veteran signed will at least give Cleveland some stability as they sort through other changes.
