The Cleveland Browns are on the brink of a major overhaul after a disappointing season, despite having the most expensive NFL roster in history, a whopping $337 million. Due to the team’s poor performance, it is suggested that various players, including Za’Darius Smith, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Jed Wills be traded before the upcoming deadline. Players who are not contracted beyond this current season are also considered disposable as the team’s future seems bleak, leading to uncertainty and concern amongst the players.
The Browns’ failure is partially attributed to the firing of Alex Van Pelt as the offensive coordinator and the trading of Deshaun Watson which, in hindsight, appears to have severely damaged the franchise. Despite Watson previously seeming like the superior quarterback, he has struggled with performance and health issues. The colossal investment in him, along with future looming cap hits, has effectively closed the team’s contention window.
Consequently, many players are questioning their future with the team. Key players, such as Joel Bitonio, Myles Garrett, and Nick Chubb, are nearing the end of their contracts and could potentially request to leave due to the current situation. The likelihood of retaining talent for a team facing such struggles seems low. Furthermore, the team’s prediction of its future roster alongside its forecasted cap sheets is not looking favorable.
The team has also been having issues with its quarterback selections, shackled by injuries and subpar performances. Jameis Winston, who was brought in to play, has not lived up to expectations, with numerous interceptions and a lackluster performance on the field. A potential answer to this problem could be Dorian Thompson-Robinson, but his proneness to injuries raises concerns. The alternative solution suggested is to draft a new quarterback next year, albeit this approach would refuel the cycle of uncertainty.
Questions about the future of the Browns’ coaching staff and front office have arisen amidst these struggles. The team’s ability to weather this storm is seen as a substantial challenge despite last year’s successful navigation through a string of injuries. As players only have their gameplay tapes and potential future contracts to play for, the morale of the team is expected to have taken a hit.
As the NFL trade deadline looms, decisions need to be made fast. It seems that the Cleveland Browns may undergo a drastic transformation, a desperate clicking of the reset button. This transformation may see numerous players moving on, signaling a new era for the franchise and its loyal fan base. It remains to be seen what the final roster will look like as each day brings a new uncertainty for the troubled team.
