The Cleveland Browns and new head coach Hue Jackson have made it clear the team needs a franchise quarterback. That statement implies that both Johnny Manziel and Josh McCown are not an option for that role leaving the Browns to focus on the draft and free agency to find the right player to take over the quarterback role. With the No.2 pick in the NFL Draft, the Browns could place their hope in a rookie quarterback or they could try to go big with a contract for Sam Bradford.
A decision has not been made on the future of Manziel or McCown for that matter. According to ESPN's Pat McManamon, the Browns are going to take their time evaluating both players as they would like to first speak with Manziel and find out where his head is at before making a move. While many believe that Jackson aims to release Manziel, the head coach could try to keep him on as a backup simply to see if something develops. Team vice president Sashi Brown made it clear that while there are a lot of rumors surrounding the quarterback, he will be cautious in making a decision.
"I know a lot's been written about him. What we expect is Johnny to have a good offseason and be ready to go. We're not in any panic to make any decision one way or another on him," Brown said, via ESPN.com. "He understands what's ahead of him and what he needs to do to have a career in this league and with the Browns."
Regardless of whether or not Manziel stays or goes, he will not be the starting quarterback. The Browns will bring in someone new for that role. Could it be Bradford? According to Philly.com, the Browns had interest in Bradford before he was traded to the Eagles. The quarterback reportedly told his agent that if he were to be traded to Cleveland, he would not sign an extension. However, that mindset could change this offseason if the Browns offer the quarterback the contract he is looking for. Reports surfaced saying Bradford has requesting $25 million a season from the Eagles in a new deal. If the Browns are desperate, they could make the offer to Bradford.
According to NFLSpinZone.com, the Browns should take a hard pass on Bradford and reset with a rookie. With the No.2 pick the Browns can get their hands on Jared Goff, Carson Wentz or Paxton Lynch. The issue is that ESPN's Todd McShay is reporting that none of these quarterbacks are a home run hit to lead a franchise next season. That could put Cleveland back. With McCown on the roster, the team has some flexibility. The could start the veteran and allow a rookie to develop. While a rookie quarterback is an unknown, so is a long-term contract to Bradford considering his health and struggles. The Browns will look at all factors.
