The Cleveland Browns are expected to add some offensive weapons this offseason.
Cleveland needs some major help at receiver, as the Browns have been linked to many receivers in free agency and the draft. Yet, one intriguing name is Tampa Bay Buccaneers star receiver Mike Evans, as Mary Kay Cabot said the team has interest in him.
Although the Browns have interest in Evans, NFL analyst Andy McNamara of Sporting News urges Cleveland to avoid signing the future Hall of Famer.
“Instead of overpaying for past production, the Browns should look at younger and cheaper complementary pieces in free agency,” McNamara wrote. “Or look at a trade for the likes of a Brian Thomas Jr. or Marvin Harrison Jr., who both possess true WR1 potential.
“Better yet? Use one of their two first-round picks on a blue-chip receiver. You get elite talent on a rookie contract. The ultimate win for a team needing to be ‘ballin’ on a budget.”
Evans would immediately help the Browns’ offense. But the price tag would likely be high, and at this point in his career, he could very well want to play for a Super Bowl contender.
However, Evans does have some familiarity with Todd Monken. So, perhaps that can help Cleveland land him, but McNamara doesn’t think the Browns should even be pursuing him.
Browns to Pursue Evans
Although McNamara doesn’t think the Browns should pursue Evans, Cleveland is expected to have interest in him.
Cabot of Cleveland.com reported that the Browns are expected to show interest in Evans.
“Bucs six-time Pro Bowl receiver Mike Evans is set to hit the free agent market on Monday, and the Browns are expected to be among the multiple teams interested,” Cabot wrote. “Of Evans’ suitors, the Browns make more sense than some, in part because the future Hall of Famer flourished with new Browns head coach Todd Monken as his offensive coordinator in Tampa, and would welcome the opportunity to be reunited with him.”
Entering the offseason, Browns general manager Andrew Berry said the team needs more weapons on offense.
“I think we can add all across the offense to be honest,” Berry said. “We’re really pleased with some of the younger players we have. Jerry is gonna be a big part of it. And we’re pleased with Isaiah’s (Bond) rookie year. But that doesn’t mean we can’t add to the arsenal. Malachi (Corley), he carved out a nice role.”
Evans recorded 30 receptions for 368 yards as he dealt with injuries last season. It was the first time in his career he didn’t record 1000+ receiving yards. Yet, if healthy, Evans would be Cleveland’s bona fide No. 1 receiver and immediately strengthen the position.
What is Evans Projected to Sign For?
Although Evans dealt with injuries last season, he’s expected to be an impact free agent this offseason.
Evans is a future Hall of Famer, and The Athletic’s Daniel Popper projected the star receiver to sign a two-year, $51 million deal.
“Evans is elite at the catch point in 50-50 situations,” Popper wrote. “He is tough to handle at the line of scrimmage, even for bigger corners. And he is a three-level threat who can win in the short, intermediate and deep parts of the field. Evans was finally healthy for a Week 15 game against the Atlanta Falcons. He caught six passes for 132 yards. This game showed he still has the goods, though health will be a factor as Evans enters his age-33 season.”
NFL free agency begins on March 9.
Browns Urged to Avoid Signing Future Hall of Famer to Bolster Offense