The Cleveland Browns were involved in a very public imbroglio with star defensive end Myles Garrett earlier this offseason.
Garrett cited his desire to play for "a contender" and didn't think the Browns would soon be there. Cleveland could've made a trade as several teams showed interest, and most likely could've gained a ton of draft capital in exchange.
But Garrett decided more money was enough to keep him in Cleveland with a four-year, $160 million contract extension.
But as it turns out, Garrett might not be the Browns' best trade asset. Pro Football Focus' Bradley Locker named cornerback Greg Newsome II as Cleveland's top trade asset recently.
"With Cleveland's roster facing legitimate questions across the board throughout the next two years, Newsome's fit is uncertain," Locker wrote. "The Northwestern product was strong throughout his first three pro seasons but took a step back in 2024, posting only a 54.0 PFF coverage grade with a 120.7 passer rating allowed when targeted.
"Newsome has seemingly been a constant in trade discussions, and that could amplify with him going into the last year of his rookie deal."
Newsome is a former first-round pick, but he has struggled in the NFL and seemed expendable last season at the trade deadline. But the Browns kept him, and he sat out the final four games of the year with an abdomen injury.
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If the Browns are truly looking to restock some draft picks after giving up a haul to the Texans in the Deshaun Watson trade, they may have missed their chance by keeping Garrett.
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 1:18 PM.