In a somewhat surprising turn of events, the Cleveland Browns didn't make a move at the trade deadline. That's not the way general manager Andrew Berry usually operates, though it's not like he didn't try.
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, the Browns worked the phones in an attempt to land a blocking tight end and a pass-rusher. They were reportedly close to completing a deal, but nothing materialized.
While there aren't many options available for their tight-end needs, there might still be hope for their defensive line. Leonard Floyd and Haason Reddick are still available, and they might still have something left in the tank.
Reddick, 32, is only three years removed from back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons. He notched over 50 snaps over a four-year span from 2020 to 2023. Floyd, 34, is a bit older, but he had 3.5 sacks and 11 QB hits with the Falcons last year and has 70 total sacks over his 10-year career.
Free agents like Leonard Floyd and Haason Reddick could still give the Browns the pass-rush help they need
The Browns were never going to make a blockbuster deal for Maxx Crosby, not even a mid-tier move to land Khalil Mack. Other options, like Jadeveon Clowney, would have made perfect sense had the Houston Texans lost in Week 9.
While sometimes the best move is the one you don't make, it's become crystal clear that this team is extremely thin along the front seven. What if Mason Graham gets hurt again? And who'll step up if Jared Verse keeps struggling?
Granted, the need for a blocking tight end is also paramount. Harold Fannin Jr. isn't here to block, and the revolving door the Browns have had at the position has been underwhelming at best. That said, they might just be able to get by with the guys in the building, which isn't the case on defense.
Mike Rutenberg's unit has regressed over the past four games, giving up more yards each week. Some of that might be a matter of teams catching up to their man-heavy scheme and simulated pressures, but the pass rush also needs to get home.
Browns fans have made Verse the scapegoat, and while he hasn't been nearly as good as advertised, he's not the only one to blame for that regression. This sport is the ultimate chess match, and sometimes it's all about having all the right pieces to match up with the opposition.
Andrew Berry has made some mistakes in his time in charge of this team, but he usually uses the trade deadline as an opportunity to fix them. That wasn't the case this season, but as disappointing as that was, there are still some veterans out there who might give this team the push and depth it needs to get back on track.
Add us as a preferred source on Google