The Cleveland Browns need a wide receiver in the worst way. The team was able to get by last year off underachieving free agents, but the chances they strike gold twice is slim. The Browns do not have Josh Gordon returning. They are letting Jordan Cameron walk away into free agency. There are major holes to fill on the roster and the Browns can go about it in multiple ways.
When the news of a trade request surfaced, the Browns were immediately linked to a deal for Andre Johnson. The wide receiver is not happy with the Houston Texans. According to the Houston Chronicle, the franchise has allowed Johnson to seek out potential trades. His cap hit along with his age will make the market small. Johnson is signed through 2017 with $16 million cap hit in 2015. That is not ideal for any team to take on, but the Browns could be an option.
According to NFL.com, the Browns could be a landing spot simply because they will give Johnson the playing time he is desiring. According to the Houston Chronicle, Johnson grew unhappy when head coach Bill O'Brien told him he should not expect more than 40 catches in 2015. Johnson still views himself as a strong starter in the league and has no interest in a smaller role. The Browns need Johnson to be a starter for them which would certainly please the veteran.
The Browns could look to someone who can take on a more team-friendly contract. The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported that Brian Hartline was in Cleveland meeting with Browns officials. The slot receiver would be a solid addition to the rotation despite his down season in 2014. Hartline would also come at a much cheaper price than most receivers hitting the free agent market this offseason.
Cleveland has money to spend and draft picks to make trades. They could easily take Mike Wallace off the hands of the Miami Dolphins. They could also afford to make offers to players like Randall Cobb, Julius Thomas or Jeremy Maclin. The Browns also have the luxury of two first-round draft picks which makes Amari Cooper, Kevin White or DeVante Parker options. Cleveland could easily sign a star and draft a rookie to help out Josh McCown and Johnny Manziel for the short-term and future.
