The Cleveland Browns had a tough season in 2016 and quarterback Johnny Manziel's future with the franchise now could be up in the air after his off the field issues. The team has some pressing concerns, including bringing in a new head coach and potentially a new quarterback for next season.
The Browns have a top three draft pick this year and could consider taking a quarterback with the pick, while players like Sam Bradford, Colin Kaepernick or Robert Griffin could also be potential options. Manziel played fairly well this season when given the chance to start, but his off the field issues could overshadow any development he made on the field this past season. According to Cleveland.com, Manziel has had a number of issues off the field this season and also missed some team related meetings and medical check-ups near the end of the season.
All of that could lead to the trade or release of Manziel and depending on who comes in to take over as head coach, the Browns could start over again at quarterback. Manziel showed some flashes of brilliance this season, but he also was inconsistent at times and his issues off the field may keep him from continuing on with the Browns. According to Yahoo Sports, Charles Robinson reports that Manziel would "love" to end up with the Dallas Cowboys. Sources report that Jerry Jones could be open to bringing in Manziel, as Jones was reportedly "infatuated" with the QB heading into the 2014 draft.
The Browns have some major decisions to make, as the QB class for 2016 has solid names like Jared Goff and Paxton Lynch as some of the top prospects. The team also could consider free agency, as players like Sam Bradford, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Kirk Cousins could be available. The team reportedly previously offered a trade to the Rams for Bradford before he was moved to the Eagles and now the Browns could consider trying to sign Bradford. Bradford may return to the Eagles, but after the coaching change with Chip Kelly there is a chance he could sign elsewhere.
The Browns also have some potential trade options, as players like Robert Griffin and Colin Kaepernick could be on the block. Griffin is likely getting released, so the Browns could wait and see what happens there before making a move. The head coach that gets hired likely will make a big difference and the Browns have started interviewing candidates and have targeted some of the top names available this offseason.
According to Cleveland.com, the Browns are looking at names like Matt Patricia, Hue Jackson, Doug Marrone and Lovie Smith. Adam Gase was a target, but he has officially signed with the Miami Dolphins to take over as head coach. The report says that the Browns have asked offensive coordinator John DeFilippo to remain for next season along with quarterbacks coach Kevin O'Connell.
