NFL Free Agency: Best Remaining Players for Browns Needs

Dec 28, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) is introduced before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi

Wide Receiver

Having already signed Hartline and having faith in Andrew Hawkins and Taylor Gabriel, the Browns may not sign another receiver this year. Drafting a player who can develop into a #1 could be higher on their priority list. Yet here are a couple that are available and our Browns related thoughts on them:

Cecil Shorts – Shorts, the Cleveland area native, would be a low end #1 that could give the Browns time to develop a youngster for that role. Shorts would give the Browns a competitive group of receivers and allow them to go in a different direction in the draft as well. Shorts has stated that he wants to win and a good quarterback so that could rule out the Browns.

Denarius Moore – The former #1 receiver for the Raiders is a bit of hit or miss but his past with John DeFilippo could come in handy. He isn’t going to wow anyone with his overall ability but could be an intriguing add. Restricted Raiders WR Andre Holmes could be another target later.

Dwayne Bowe – Bowe is a bigger receiver but has fallen off in recent years and thinks he is better than he really is. He does have a history with Ray Farmer which could mean something but doesn’t seem to fit what the Browns want from a player. There has been reports of interest and, if so, expect a one year deal.

Michael Crabtree – We will just group these two together. Crabtree has talent but thinks he is more than he has shown. The Browns shouldn’t pass up talent too often but again locker room dynamics and player attitude is huge. A one year deal where he must be on his best behavior is the best chance.

Stevie Johnson – Johnson was with Mike Pettine in Buffalo so they know each other. While Johnson is talented, his penchant for breaking off routes and free lancing isn’t something the Browns are going to want as they try to develop consistency with their quarterbacks. Johnson has reported he hasn’t heard from the Browns.

Next: Tight Ends