Trade Buzz: Eagles could look to add a former Browns first-round pick
As training camp looms and roster battles get underway, the Philadelphia Eagles could be monitoring Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II as a potential trade target. With questions lingering in the secondary, particularly at the second cornerback spot opposite Quinyon Mitchell, the Eagles could be evaluating ways to add depth to their secondary.
Kelee Ringo is currently locked in a camp battle with veteran Adoree' Jackson for the No. 2 cornerback role, while Cooper DeJean has solidified his place in the slot. However, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is known for valuing multifaceted defensive backs, and Newsome's skillset fits that profile.
A standout at Northwestern, Newsome earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2020 before being selected 26th in the 2021 NFL Draft. Newsome made an immediate impact in Cleveland, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team while showing flashes of elite potential. He recorded career-best numbers in 2023, recording 14 pass breakups, two interceptions, and allowing a 74.8 passer rating when targeted.
Despite that breakout season, 2024 marked a downturn. After Cleveland exercised Newsome's fifth-year option, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski shifted him down the depth chart, favoring Martin Emerson Jr. in his place. Newsome started just three games last season and dealt with a hamstring injury that landed him on injured reserve. The Browns shopped Newsome ahead of this year's draft, but no deal materialized.
For the Eagles, Newsome's ability to play both inside and outside corner is enticing. Per Pro Football Focus, Newsome has logged 1,428 snaps on the outside and 1,163 at nickel throughout his career, offering Fangio the kind of schematic flexibility his defense thrives on. Newsome could immediately challenge for a starting role or serve as a high-end rotational piece. Philadelphia is scheduled to hold a joint practice with the Browns on August 13, which could serve as a live audition for Newsome in front of the Eagles' coaches.
The roster is well-positioned financially to absorb Newsome's guaranteed $13.3 million salary for next season, and at just 25 years old, the former first-round pick still has room to develop. For an Eagles' team intent on repeating as Super Bowl champions, Newsome represents a rare combination of youth, talent, and versatility.
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