Post free agency roster moves for the Cleveland Browns
By Greg Newland
Jarvis Landry – Wide Receiver
For most teams, it would be tough to stomach having two receivers in the top 12 of payroll for their position. It’s an even tougher pill to swallow when its an analytical team like the Cleveland Browns who are paying Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham Jr. north of $15 million per year on average.
Statistically, Landry is the keeper of the two, even though he lacks the big play ability you get from Beckham Jr. Landry has quietly racked up 2,150 yards and 10 touchdowns in his two Pro-Bowl seasons with the Browns. Landry is a vocal leader for the offense and has played in 14+ games in each of the last five seasons.
My favorite quality of Landry (and Beckham Jr.) is the effort you get. Who remembers Jamie Collins dogging it on the field when the game was out of hand? Landry is going to give you 100 percent every play which can’t be overlooked.
Like Beckham Jr., the same situation for Landry, why would you trade him for little to no value? Yes, he’s very expensive, but cap space is not an issue right now. The Browns need to hold on to him at least another year to help Mayfield continue to progress.
Browns fans want Mayfield to be “the guy” for decades. Players like Landy and Beckham Jr. are necessary at this point in his career to help him develop. After Mayfield turns the corner, you can downgrade at wide receiver and know that Mayfield can get it done with anyone who can run and catch the ball.
You won’t be able to afford Landry long-term, nor should the Browns be willing to pay him. But if all Landry is worth currently is a fourth or fifth-round pick, keep him to help Baker.
The experts love to speculate, especially during a slow time in sports with COVID-19, but Berry has shown to be a sharp general manager thus far. He will not let Landry or OBJ go unless the return is right, which is highly unlikely.