While the Cleveland Browns must focus on getting a new quarterback on the roster, the team has other offseason needs as well. The offensive line will be evaluated while the need for a top wide receiver is important as well. Travis Benjamin was one of the team's leading receiver in 2015 after posting career-high bests in all categories. As he prepares to hit the free agent market and command a big contract, will the Browns retain him?
According to Mark Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Benjamin and the Browns are progressing towards a new contract. Benjamin is coming off a season where he put up 966 yards and five touchdowns despite all of the quarterback drama that faced the team. His agent, Ronald Butler, told the Plain Dealer that he is "optimistic that something will get something done in the near future," said Butler. "We've been in contact with the organization here in the last couple of weeks and we're still trying to figure out how we can get this thing done where both sides agree to a fair offer." The Browns are certainly going through the paces of offseason drama, but Benjamin told the media he is confident in Hue Jackson and the future of the franchise.
"I love it," Benjamin said, vic the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "Being a receiver and knowing the type of offense we're going to run, where he always finds way to get guys open, it will be great for us."
There will be a lot of interest in Benjamin this offseason meaning the Browns cannot skimp on the contract offer. So what happens if they get out-bid on a new deal? The Browns will potentially have Josh Gordon back in action, but outside of Gary Barnidge their offense is lacking. If Benjamin cannot be signed, expect Jackson to go after a familiar face in Marvin Jones. Rishard Matthews or Jermaine Kearse could also be a target.
The Browns could also look to the NFL Draft for help. The team is expected to select a quarterback in the first round of the draft, but they will select early in the second round. Players like Will Fuller, Josh Doctson and Braxton Miller could all be candidates to add to the roster to help in 2016.
Benjamin has a lot of confidence in Cleveland despite the issues with the quarterback position. He told the media that he believes with Barnidge and the running back tandem of Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson means the roster is not short on playmakers. Time will tell if he is also a part of that group.
