Dawgs By Nature
NFL trade deadline rumors have the Browns selling but a victory in Week 9 could change things
There is nothing like riding the highs and lows of professional sports. For Cleveland Browns fans, the start of the 2024 NFL season was one of the worst in the team’s recent history. All of a sudden QB Jameis Winston leads the Browns to a victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8 and, due to a weak AFC, fans can realistically talk about the playoffs being a slim possibility.
Rumors around the NFL trade deadline have been all about Cleveland selling including DE Za’Darius Smith. While that may still be the likely outcome, we’ve seen this front office change course due to a win right before the trade deadline.
What if the Browns beat the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 9 to pull, potentially, within a game of a playoff spot? Could GM Andrew Berry become a buyer, not a seller despite dealing away WR Amari Cooper a few weeks ago?
In case that is a possibility, here are a few players Cleveland could target from struggling teams:
The former Minnesota Vikings receiver has not found a place with his new team this year. Not an exciting receiver, Osborn is a solid veteran who can keep things going if the Browns lose a receiver and provide some depth for a small price on a cheap contract.
While Osborn would be a solidifying piece for this season, Ojulari would be about the now and future. With Smith having one more year on his deal, with no guaranteed money, Cleveland could be looking for a young partner for Myles Garrett. The Giants are not going anywhere and have invested in Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux as pass rushers leaving Ojulari future after this year a big question.
Nothing is going well for the Titans passing game including Okonkwo only having 17 receptions for 121 yards so far. Last year, with similar poor quarterback play, Okonkwo was given more opportunities to make an impact with over 500 yards receiving. The former fourth-round pick is under contract for next year and could help balance things for the Browns offense alongside David Njoku.
A former Cleveland second-round draft pick, Ogbah has continued to be a solid player in his ninth season in the NFL. Last year, in just 246 snaps, Ogbah had 5.5 sacks and continues to be a strong presence in the run game. For Cleveland, Ogbah fills the Alex Wright role after the youngster was lost to injury earlier this year.
A potential buy-low candidate, Neal was the seventh overall pick in 2022 but has fallen out of favor with the Giants. Neal has only played in one game this season and just one overall snap. Getting an athletic prospect to develop...
