The Cleveland Browns head into the 2026 offseason with a clear mission: elevate an offense that, at times, struggled to find rhythm and consistency. Whether the front office decides to roll with Shedeur Sanders under center or eventually pivots to a quarterback in the 2027 draft, one thing is certain-this team needs more firepower on the outside.
The tight end and running back rooms are solid. Those groups have held their own and, at times, carried the offensive load.
But when it comes to the offensive line and especially the wide receiver corps, there’s work to be done. And if the Browns want to give Sanders-or whoever ends up under center-the best chance to succeed, a legitimate No. 1 wideout is a must.
Enter AJ Brown.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Brown could be one of the league’s top trade candidates this offseason, and the Browns are among several teams that league insiders view as a strong fit. The Eagles may be open to fielding offers, and if that’s the case, Cleveland should be ready to pounce.
Brown isn’t just another name on the trade block. He’s a true alpha receiver-physical, explosive, and proven.
Over the past four seasons in Philadelphia, he’s been a cornerstone of the Eagles’ passing attack, consistently producing at a high level and drawing top coverage assignments week in and week out. He’s the kind of player who tilts the field and forces defenses to adjust.
For the Browns, this isn’t just about adding talent-it’s about changing the dynamic of the offense. Jerry Jeudy and Isaiah Bond have shown flashes, but neither has consistently proven they can carry the load as a WR1.
Brown, on the other hand, has done that and more. He brings instant credibility to a receiver room that needs a leader, and his presence alone would open things up for the rest of the offense.
Sure, acquiring Brown won’t come cheap. A first-round pick is likely the starting point in any serious trade conversation.
But for a player of his caliber-still in his prime and under contract-it’s a price worth considering. Especially for a team that’s trying to build around a young quarterback and make a push in a highly competitive AFC.
There’s also a connection worth noting: Browns GM Andrew Berry previously spent time with the Eagles. That familiarity with Philadelphia’s front office could help facilitate discussions and potentially give Cleveland an edge if trade talks heat up.
If AJ Brown does hit the trade market, the Browns need to be aggressive. This is the type of move that can reshape an offense and redefine expectations. Whether it’s Sanders or someone else taking snaps in 2026, adding a game-changing receiver like Brown could be the spark this team needs to take the next step.