The Cleveland Browns have been answering questions regarding their wide receivers corps. After the team lost Josh Gordon to a suspension, they opted not to draft anyone and sign players off the free agent market instead. While that has kept the Browns competitive through seven weeks of the season, it might not be enough should Cleveland actually get into contention for the postseason. That is where the mid-season trade deadline could be the difference maker for the Browns.
According to NFL.com, the Cleveland Browns were one of the teams in the running for Percy Harvin when the Seattle Seahawks were quietly shopping him. According to Ian Rapoport, the Seahawks attempted to acquire Jordan Cameron from the Browns in exchange for the wide receiver and Cleveland did not bite. While getting a speedster for Brian Hoyer is certainly an upgrade, the off-the-field issues of Harvin have overshadowed any potential he brings to an offense. The Brown were unwilling to give up a versatile tight end like Cameron in exchange.
The Browns could still shop around before the NFL trade deadline. There might be plenty of big names available and considering the Browns have two first-round draft picks for next year, they could make a deal should they win their next few games before Oct. 31. One player drawing some looks is Vincent Jackson. With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers going nowhere this year, teams have looked at Jackson for help. Rapoport notes that while Jackson has a tough contract to deal, his numbers are very strong. Cleveland will have to decide if it is worth grabbing a receiver over 30 who will make nearly $10 million over the next few years.
Larry Fitzgerald could also be an option for the team. This deal would easily cost the Browns a draft pick, but not one of their two first-rounders so the move might be worth it. Fitzgerald's contract is expiring with the Arizona Cardinals and he will be a big ticket on the free agent market. Knowing he might leave, the Cardinals could be more willing to strike up a deal.
Despite their Week 7 loss, the Cleveland Browns are a legit threat to make the postseason. They have a solid three-headed rushing attack. They have a very favorable schedule with the Raiders and Buccaneers still left to play. Brian Hoyer is throwing well. Getting another speedy wide receiver to run alongside Gordon when he returns could be the x-factor for the Browns.
