Parris Campbell named as Cleveland Browns wide receiver target
By Randy Gurzi
The Cleveland Browns can use some more depth at wide receiver and former Ohio State star Parris Campbell is a name to watch this offseason
Recently on Sports4CLE, Dave Bacon brought on Tyler Johnson to discuss the state of the Cleveland Browns wide receiver corps. While they both admitted Cleveland needs some help, they also each stated that they’re not enamored with many of the names in free agency.
There was one player who appeared to be a good fit, although he’s not without questions himself.
That would be Parris Campbell, a former Ohio State standout who has spent the past three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts.
Campbell would add exactly what this offense needs, which is a speedy receiver capable of playing in the slot. Johnson mentioned the fact that many fans are clamoring for DeAndre Hopkins simply because he’s a well-known name, but that Campbell would be the better option.
What worry should the Browns have with Campbell?
As Johnson pointed out, Campbell would be a great fit in Cleveland’s offense but has had his share of injury concerns throughout his career. He stated this is why it could make sense for Andrew Berry to backload a contract for Campbell, but added that Indianapolis will likely retain Campbell due to their lack of depth at the position.
Should the Browns make a move for Campbell?
It’s true that Campbell does have some injury concerns but after playing in just 15 games throughout his first three seasons in the NFL, he suited up for all 17 this past year. And in doing so, he showed why he was a second-round pick in 2019.
Campbell finished with 63 receptions for 623 yards and scored three touchdowns, which is great for him as he enters free agency.
For Cleveland, it would be a wise move to add Campbell but they have to make sure not to break the bank. We’ve seen in recent seasons that teams will overpay for wideouts — see Christian Kirk who was shocked by the offer the Jacksonville Jaguars made for him — so the Browns have to make sure they don’t get into a bidding war.
Should they be able to add him to an incentive-laden deal with an out after a year or two, it would be a risk worth taking.
Having said that, this is an underwhelming free agent class, and due to teams suddenly overpaying average receivers, it’s probably not likely that Campbell will make a return to Ohio.
