After right this moment’s replace to Deshaun Watson‘s authorized state of affairs, it’s anticipated his commerce market will intensify in a short time. A lot of groups have lengthy been identified to have an interest within the Professional Bowler, however one other title so as to add to that checklist is the Browns. Based on Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, the staff has “performed [its] homework” on Watson, and can proceed to control his availability.
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Whereas Cabot is fast to notice that “it stays to be seen in the event that they’ll attempt to commerce for him”, the actual fact they’ve performed their due diligence on the matter is noteworthy. The Browns have Baker Mayfield beneath contract for yet another 12 months – the totally assured fifth-year possibility, valued at $18.8M – and have publicly backed him as their starter for a minimum of 2022.
Cabot additionally recollects that the Browns have been among the many groups who rated Mitch Trubisky over Watson amongst QBs within the 2017 draft, wherein the staff chosen Myles Garrett first general. Cleveland additionally owned choose No. 12 that 12 months, however traded it to Houston, who then landed one of many league’s finest younger signal-callers. Buying and selling for Watson (who has a no-trade clause and a scheduled cap hit of over $40M for subsequent 12 months) may, then, signify the righting of an organizational incorrect in a way.
Nonetheless, the Browns would face competitors from the likes of the Buccaneers, Panthers and Seahawks to land Watson. Their acknowledged precedence with respect to upgrading the offense – the first reason for 2021’s disappointing efficiency – has been so as to add to the extensive receiver room. Between the “soul-searching” Cabot notes the staff would do earlier than executing any deal, in addition to the acquisition value of a commerce, Cleveland due to this fact might properly discover itself among the many golf equipment bowing out of great consideration. However, they may turn into one other staff to control relating to one of many league’s prime storylines.
