The Cleveland Browns are trying to get that big wide receiver who can become a safety blanket for either Josh McCown or Johnny Manziel at quarterback. The Browns have signed Brian Hartline to a deal along with utility receivers like Marlon Moore, but they still lack that big-named player on the roster, something they hope to change in the coming days.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Browns are set on trying to sign Dwayne Bowe, preferably in the next day or so. After getting released by the Kansas City Chiefs, the Browns brought the veteran in for a visit and hope he does not leave before signing his name on the dotted line. Cleveland is trying to find their replacement to Josh Gordon who will be suspended for the entire year following his violation of the league's substance abuse policy.
The question is whether or not Bowe is the right player for that job or not. The veteran is a quality receiver, there is no question about that, but he is no longer a No. 1 type of guy. He had a breakout season with the Chiefs in 2010, putting up 15 touchdowns, but he is coming off a season where he had just 754 yards and did not score a touchdown. Bowe is likely looking for a team that will put him as the No. 1 guy and Cleveland would certainly do that since they are desperate for receivers. The veteran cannot afford to be picky when it comes to money.
The Browns need to make a move and quickly. They were hoping to have Jordan Cameron locked in on a return to the team in free agency, but the tight end opted to sign a two-year deal with the Miami Dolphins instead. There are still good options at the receiver position in free agency. Stevie Johnson, Michael Crabtree and Hakeem Nicks are still floating around on the market and would help out Cleveland. They are all much younger than Bowe and potentially more athletic, but could command more money.
With two first-round draft picks the chances are high Cleveland also drafts a young receiver to take over. The team could make moves for Amari Cooper, Kevin White or DeVante Parker in the draft to become the wide receiver of the future. Gordon will gone and might not ever put on a Cleveland uniform again. They need long-term replacements.
