DE Osi Umenyiora Drawing Interest, But Not From the Browns

At first glance, it would seem obvious that the Cleveland Browns should go after New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora in a trade, as the team has given him permission to seek a new team.

Despite signing Jayme Mitchell to potentially anchor the left side of the defensive line, Umenyiora would be a great acquisition to help build depth in a transitioning defense. The only problem is what it would cost to bring him to Cleveland.

Originally, the Giants had a steep asking price of a first-round pick for him, which effectively took the Browns right out of the race. Yes, the Browns have two first-round picks in 2012, but you’d just as soon see Art Modell in Cleveland again before you see this front office trade away a draft pick without getting a better draft position or more picks in return.

Currently, there are five teams (the St. Louis Rams, San Diego Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, and Baltimore Ravens) interested in Umenyiora’s services, and are probably more willing to surrender a higher draft pick than the Browns. Though the asking price seems to be falling a bit – no one is really biting on the suggestion of a first-round pick – the Browns seem more content building through the draft and plugging holes through free agency.

Besides, dumping a high draft pick that can be used to obtain even more picks in 2012 for one player just isn’t a part of the Browns’ philosophy right now.