The Cleveland Browns have been making some major moves this off-season, and it looks like they are not done yet. The team has been working hard to improve their roster and make a strong comeback in the upcoming season. And one of the ways they can do that is by making a bold trade that could potentially benefit the team in the long run.
According to recent reports, the Browns are considering trading one of their higher-end defenders in order to cut salary and add draft capital. This move could prove to be a game-changer for the team, as it will not only free up cap space but also provide them with valuable draft picks to strengthen their roster.
The Browns have been struggling with their defense for quite some time now, and it’s no secret that they have invested a lot of money in their defensive players. However, not all of them have lived up to their hefty price tags, and it’s time for the team to make some tough decisions. One such player who has been underperforming despite his $100 million contract is none other than Olivier Vernon.
Vernon joined the Browns in 2019 after being traded from the New York Giants. The team had high hopes for him, but unfortunately, he has failed to live up to expectations. In his two seasons with the Browns, Vernon has recorded a total of 13.5 sacks and 81 tackles, which is not exactly impressive for a player of his caliber. And with a salary of $15.25 million, he is one of the highest-paid players on the team.
It’s clear that Vernon’s performance does not justify his salary, and the Browns can definitely use that money to address other areas of their roster. But that’s not all, by trading Vernon, the team can also add valuable draft capital, which is crucial for their long-term success. The Browns currently have just six picks in the upcoming draft, and adding a few more could give them the depth they need to compete in a tough AFC North division.
So, what could be a potential trade proposal for Vernon? Well, one team that could be interested in acquiring the veteran pass rusher is the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals have been looking to bolster their defense, and Vernon could be a great addition to their roster. Plus, with the retirement of veteran pass rusher Terrell Suggs, the Cardinals have a void to fill on their defensive line.
In return, the Browns could ask for a second or third-round draft pick, which would be a fair deal for both teams. This move would not only free up cap space for the Browns but also give them the opportunity to address their needs in the draft. And for the Cardinals, they would get a proven pass rusher who could help them in their quest for a playoff spot.
Of course, this is just one potential trade scenario, and the Browns could explore other options as well. But the bottom line is that trading Vernon could be a smart move for the team, both financially and strategically. And with new head coach Kevin Stefanski at the helm, the Browns are looking to build a winning culture, and this trade could be a step in the right direction.
But why trade Vernon to the NFC? Well, it’s simple. The Browns are in the AFC, and trading him to a team in the same conference could come back to haunt them. Plus, the NFC has some strong teams that could use a pass rusher like Vernon, and it’s always better to strengthen a team in a different conference rather than a direct competitor.
In conclusion, the Cleveland Browns have a tough decision to make regarding Olivier Vernon. But trading him could prove to be a wise move for the team, as it would not only cut salary but also provide them with valuable draft picks. And with a new coaching staff and a talented roster, the Browns are poised for success in the upcoming season. Let’s see if they pull the trigger on this potential trade and continue their journey towards becoming a winning team.