3 wide receivers Browns could target at the NFL trade deadline

Browns, Brandin Cooks. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Browns, Brandin Cooks. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cleveland Browns
Texans, Brandin Cooks. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Brandin Cooks, Houston Texans

If the Cleveland Browns are looking to make a midseason push prior to Deshaun Watson’s return, Brandin Cooks makes the most sense to acquire as an impactful wide receiver.

For one, Cooks is the most productive receiver rumored to be on the trade market, as he has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in six out of the last seven seasons. Cooks would also be a great fit on this offense, due to his ability to fill in as a slot receiver, which has been a weak point in the Browns’ offense.

Cooks also has chemistry with Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, as they connected 81 times for 1,150 yards in Watson’s last full season on the Houston Texans. The Browns had also reportedly inquired about Brandin Cooks prior to this season, due to his chemistry with Watson and his ideal fit on the Browns’ offense.

The other reason this trade makes sense for Cleveland is the fact that they lead the league in cap space. Due to Cook’s expensive contract, his trade value is not as high as one might expect. If Cooks is traded, it is expected to be for a Day 2 pick, since most teams will not want to take on the contract he has.

However, the Browns are in a good place to do just that, with their league-leading $33 million in cap space. If Cleveland is looking to acquire an impactful offensive weapon without losing significant draft capital, then Brandin Cooks is the perfect acquisition for them.