5 bold 2023 offseason predictions for the Cleveland Browns

4. Third wide receiver is added in free agency

Another position of need is wide receiver, although it’s far from as pressing as the defensive tackle spot. Cleveland is set with their top two receivers as Amari Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones were both great in 2022.

Cooper had 76 receptions for 1,160 yards and nine touchdowns while DPJ added 61 receptions for 839 yards and three scores.

Their only issue was that there was no consistent threat as a third wide receiver. David Bell ended up with the third-most receptions at the position but he had just 24 catches for 214 yards and no touchdowns — finishing with fewer passes caught than tight ends David Njoku and Harrison Bryant as well as running backs Kareem Hunt and Nick Chubb.

Cleveland had high hopes for Anthony Schwartz but the former third-round pick continued to struggle and had just four receptions in his second season. While he seems to be a problem, they still believe Bell can develop into that role but it would be wise to make an investment in free agency.

Early in the offseason, there have been calls for the team to make a huge move — such as trading for DeAndre Hopkins or Brandin Cooks — but it’s much more likely they go after an available player such as Mecole Hardman or Parris Campbell.

Each of these players would be significantly more affordable and wouldn’t need to be added via trade.

Of the available options, Campbell would make the most sense. An Akron native, he was a star at Ohio State and just had the best season of his career with 63 receptions for 623 yards and three touchdowns. He spent most of the season in the slot and while he was effective, he still has just one solid year under his belt, meaning he won’t break the bank in order to acquire.