Cleveland Browns
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Browns urged to trade for Michael Pittman Jr.
The Cleveland Browns are expected to pursue some help at receiver to help fix their offense.
Cleveland has been linked to drafting some receivers, but could also look at free agency or trades. Ahead of the new league year beginning, Browns insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic linked the team to acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts.
“The Indianapolis Colts used the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones and will have to spend top-of-the-market money to keep wide receiver Alec Pierce from hitting free agency. If they keep Pierce, Pittman will likely become available via trade or be released. Pittman, 28, has been a reliable receiver for multiple seasons, and the Browns currently (and embarrassingly) have zero reliable wideouts,” Jackson wrote.
Pittman would be the Browns’ No. 1 receiver, and Cleveland could look to acquire him through a trade, rather than trying to sign him. If the Browns do trade for Pittman, it likely wouldn’t cost a lot as the Colts could look to move on from him.
Pittman is entering the final year of his three-year, $70 million deal and has a $29 million cap hit in 2026. However, Cleveland has plenty of cap space to make bold moves to help the offense.
The star receiver recorded 80 receptions for 784 yards and 7 touchdowns last season with the Colts.
Colts GM Comments on Pittman’s Future
Indianapolis could be a team to watch this offseason, as the team could make some big moves.
The future of Pittman is one of the top questions, and Colts general manager Chris Ballard discussed the receiver’s future.
“We love Michael,” Ballard said. “He’s been here (Indianapolis) his whole career, he’s a really good player. He’s — he’s got a chance to be a really good player for a long time. The thing with Michael is he’s a pro. He’s a pro, he’s got a great work ethic, he’s got a great attitude.
“He’s one of those guys that, you love having in your building. But, you know, look, Michael’s — Michael’s under contract. Uh, we love Michael. Uh, you know, we’re — we’re excited about what he can do for us moving forward, he’s a big part of what we’re doing here.”
Pittman’s career-high is 109 receptions for 1,152 yards, which he accomplished in 2023.
Browns Looking to Improve at WR
Cleveland enters the offseason with a major need at receiver.
The Browns need to give whoever is at quarterback some more weapons. General manager Andrew Berry said the team will look to add, but they are also comfortable with what they have.
“I think we can add all across the offense to be honest,” Berry said Feb. 24 at the NFL combine. “We’re really pleased with some of the younger players we have. Jerry is gonna be a big part of it and we’re pleased with Isaiah’s (Bond) rookie year but that doesn’t mean we can’t add to the arsenal. Malachi (Corley), he carved out a nice role.”
As for what the Browns are looking at in a receiver is simple, according to Berry.
“I think it’s simple,” Berry said. “Like, hey, get open, catch the ball, make plays with the ball in your hands. Don’t really necessarily care how a guy does it. But, look, we all want receivers who can get open, catch it, and create after they have it in their hands.”
Cleveland has the sixth overall and 24th overall picks in the first round to potentially use on a first-round pick.