The Cleveland Browns are entering a pivotal offseason, and their approach will reveal much about their ambitions for the 2026 NFL season. If the front office goes full throttle in addressing immediate needs, it signals a push for the AFC North title and a playoff berth. On the other hand, a more cautious strategy might suggest a rebuilding phase under new head coach Todd Monken.
The Browns' primary concerns lie on the offensive side. With tight end David Njoku and offensive lineman Wyatt Teller already bidding farewell, Cleveland faces significant gaps to fill.
While much attention has been directed at the offensive line and quarterback, fans are also clamoring for a premier wide receiver. The Browns could address this with their sixth overall pick or subsequent selections. There's also buzz about a potential trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for wideout AJ Brown:
Jeremy Fowler's proposal:
- Eagles receive: 2026 first-round pick (No. 24)
- Browns receive: AJ Brown
This is a hefty price tag. For context, Brown's former teammate DK Metcalf was traded last offseason for the 52nd overall pick, along with some late Day 3 pick swaps. Given Brown's history, trade rumors are bound to swirl throughout the offseason.
The prospect of Brown joining the Browns is tantalizing for fans. However, there are valid concerns about the trade's logic.
Brown has expressed dissatisfaction with his production in Philadelphia, where he's posted just over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons. His performance has waned despite playing alongside talents like DeVonta Smith and Saquon Barkley.
With potential teammates like Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr., and Jerry Jeudy in Cleveland, could his output improve? Last year, he was targeted 121 times, a significant number.
If Cleveland could snag the 2022 or 2023 version of Brown, both seasons where he surpassed 1,400 receiving yards, a late first-round pick would be a bargain. However, they'd be acquiring a player nearing 29, with declining physical and production metrics, and who might not be thrilled with the Browns' quarterback situation.
Brown is under contract through the 2029 season, with substantial option bonuses each year. His salary cap hit exceeds $22 million for the next four seasons, with a void year cap number of $53 million in 2030.