This offseason, the Cleveland Browns have fewer positional needs than in previous years, but they still hold significance in General Manager Andrew Berry’s approach to free agency, the draft, and trade opportunities. This series will examine unrestricted free agent options for positions where the Browns could use an upgrade in starters or depth players.
In this installment, we focus on wide receivers. The Browns will likely target this position with their first selection in the 2023 NFL Draft (number 54 overall) and through free agency or trade. The production after Amari Cooper in 2023 was lackluster, and the Browns need capable playmakers to elevate their offense with quarterback Deshaun Watson. For the purpose of this article, Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals) and Michael Pittman (Indianapolis Colts) are presumed to be franchise-tagged, while Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) re-signs with the Bucs.
Please note that all statistics were sourced from Sports Info Solutions, SumerSports, rbsdm.com, and Pro Football Focus unless otherwise stated. Additionally, we define two metrics used throughout: Expected Points Added (“EPA”) measures the value of individual plays in terms of points, and Relative Athletic Score (“RAS”) measures a prospect’s athletic testing results in relation to their size and historical results from players at the same position.
