This was supposed to be the season when the Browns ended their postseason drought. Instead, Baker Mayfield and company look completely lost.
The Browns were everyone’s favorite team during the offseason. Acquiring Odell Beckham to catch passes from Baker Mayfield seemed like a move that would catapult Cleveland atop the AFC North. Instead of streaking to unfamiliar success, Mayfield and his teammates have plunged into familiar mediocrity during their ugly 2-4 start.
The franchise clearly can’t go back in time to change their season, so it’s only productive for the higher-ups at the Browns to look forward. Changes are clearly required to turn Cleveland’s season around, but the trick is figuring out which buttons to push. This piece will give the franchise three ways to fix their second-year quarterback and their floundering fortunes.
3. Trade for offensive line help
It’s an open secret that the Browns’ offensive line hasn’t done a good job of protecting their quarterback this season. There aren’t any internal solutions available to help fix the problem. Cleveland’s front office needs to go out and make a deal that can help give Mayfield more protection.
The obvious candidate to pursue is disgruntled Redskins’ left tackle Trent Williams. The veteran lineman has insisted he will not play for Washington again under any circumstances. Team officials continue to insist they won’t entertain offers for the 31-year-old, but perhaps the franchise’s decision to fire Jay Gruden will institute a youth movement in Washington. That could open up an opportunity for the Browns to make a deal to solidify their biggest weakness.
Williams isn’t the only player who could help the Browns’ front line though. Truthfully, Cleveland has weaknesses at almost every position along their offensive front. If the Browns really want to make the playoffs this season, they have to make a move to strengthen their line. Mayfield isn’t going to progress if he’s running for his life all season long.