Browns Legend Urges Team to Consider Major Wide Receiver Trade
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The Cleveland Browns were widely expected to target adding more wide receiver talent during the 2025 NFL offseason. However, that has not been the case so far.
Even in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns opted to not take a wide receiver. That was a big-time surprise, but there is still time for the team to make a move at the position.
In order to add the kind of impact piece Cleveland truly needs, it's likely that a trade would need to be made. There are a few potential targets the Browns could pursue should they choose to get aggressive.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns calls a play in the first quarter of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field on October 27, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns calls a play in the first quarter of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field on October 27, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Photo byHanford Dixon, a Cleveland legend who played defensive back for the Browns from 1981 to 1989, believes that the team should pursue one specific wide receiver trade.
Read more: Browns QB Shedeur Sanders' Roster Spot in Jeopardy Per Insider
He spoke out on his show, "The Hanford Dixon Show," and urged Cleveland to pull off a trade for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave. The Browns have reportedly been in contact with the Saints regarding an Olave trade this offseason.
"The Browns better be looking to add another wide receiver, because that's one area we are lacking big time. [...] I mean, we all know, Chris Olave at Ohio State, this guy is just amazing," Dixon said. "I mean, the things that he can do at wide receiver, get open, catch the football, a game breaker, those type of guys, he could be a nightmare for a defensive back or cornerback. I think that would be a great, great move.... I just think that's just a perfect fit."
Olave has dealt with concussion enters since entering the NFL as the No. 11 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. If Cleveland were able to pull off a trade to land him, he would form a lethal long-term duo alongside Jerry Jeudy.
Last season, the 24-year-old wide receiver was only able to play in eight games. Back in 2023, however, he played in 16 games and racked up 87 receptions for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns.
Read more: Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Facing Brutal Reality to Start Rookie Season
Sports Illustrated NFL insider Albert Breer was the first to report that the Browns have already shown interest in Olave. He also reported that New Orleans turned down their trade interest.
Acquiring Olave would not come cheap, but it would be well worth the investment by Cleveland. He could be the piece that takes the offense to the next level.
It would not be surprising to see the Browns call the Saints again with interest. However, there is no guarantee that New Orleans will change its mind on trading the young wideout.
For more Cleveland Browns and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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