Browns’ Trade Proposal Reconnects Deshaun Watson with Established $40 Million Deep-Threat Talent

Browns’ Trade Proposal Reconnects Deshaun Watson with Established $40 Million Deep-Threat Talent

The Cleveland Browns have previously bolstered their wide receiver lineup through a trade with the Dallas Cowboys, and there’s speculation that General Manager Andrew Berry might replicate this success in another deal with owner Jerry Jones.

Deshaun Watson recently made public efforts to recruit pending free agent

wide receiver Tee Higgins from the Cincinnati Bengals.

While this endeavor may face challenges and depend on Watson accepting a

pay cut, a more plausible scenario involves a potential trade that aids the

Cowboys in clearing salary cap space.

Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department presented an offseason trade guide on

January 29, highlighting Brandin Cooks as a valuable trade asset for the Cowboys and a prime target for the Browns.

The proposed deal would reunite Cooks with Watson, who previously played together with the Houston Texans in 2020.

The suggested trade involves Cooks moving to the Browns in exchange for two fifth-round picks in 2024 (No. 134 overall) and 2025.

The Cowboys could save $8 million in 2024 by trading Cooks after June 1, with an additional $2 million in savings in 2025 if the move is delayed until summer.

Cleveland, aware of the Cowboys’ need to generate cap space, may consider this trade,

drawing parallels to their successful acquisition of Amari Cooper from the Cowboys two years ago.

Cooper, now listed among the Browns’ potential trade candidates, has become a key contributor, leading the team in receiving for two consecutive seasons.

Despite Cooper’s theoretical availability due to contract-related concerns, extending the 29-year-old receiver could be a sensible option for the Browns.

As they aim to contend for a playoff spot and possibly their first Super Bowl appearance,

the addition of Cooks aligns with Cleveland’s offensive strategy, emphasizing a more aggressive passing game.

Cooks, a 10-year NFL veteran with a track record of impressive seasons, can contribute to the Browns’ offensive aspirations.

However, the team must navigate salary cap challenges, particularly tied to

Watson’s substantial contract extending through 2026, as they consider significant trades.

As of Monday, Cleveland faces a deficit of $20.5 million in its 2024 budget.

Even if a reasonable trade cost for Cooks can be negotiated, his contract, entering its final season at $10 million in 2024, adds to the financial considerations.

Read more news on sporttoday.co.uk