Cecil Shorts Still a Likely Target
While the Cleveland Browns just signed Brian Hartline, Cecil Shorts is still considered a likely target. The Browns added Hartline, who will slot in behind Andrew Hawkins as the team’s #2 receiver. They still need someone who is close to a #1, and in a run first offense that could be Shorts.
Hartline’s cheap contract makes it very possible that Shorts could join the group according to two very plugged in sources:
Brian Hartline comes to Browns w/contract that allows pushing Cecil Shorts … in fact, makes Shorts a likely target.
— Steve Doerschuk (@sdoerschukREP) March 10, 2015
And our favorite Lane Adkins:
That would put the Browns in a very unique situation. Hawkins and Taylor Gabriel are for sure part of the receiving group and Hartline and Shorts would join them as a very solid group of 4. The Browns carried 5 or 6 receivers all of last year, which leaves space for only 1 or 2 more if Shorts comes along. Would they add a #1 type guy in the NFL Draft to really upgrade the group? Amari Cooper, Kevin White and DeVante Parker all could fortify what was a big weakness for the Browns.
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On the other hand, the Browns will continue to be a run first team and may not find the ability to utilize that many receivers. They are known to really like Gabriel, regardless of his size, which could mean the Browns go either/or with the Shorts, Draft Pick scenario.
As of today, the Browns have no idea if one of the top guys could be available to them in the 1st round. The draft is very deep in receiver help which could lead the Browns to sign Shorts as well as bring in a developmental guy like Sammie Coates or Breshad Perriman on the second day.
Either way don’t be surprised if the Browns make at least 1 or 2 more moves to upgrade their offense.
Do you think Cecil Shorts could be coming home to Cleveland as well?