As the NFL trade deadline looms on Tuesday at 4:00 PM Eastern, Cleveland Browns fans are bracing for what could be a flurry of activity.

According to insider Adam Schefter, the Browns are not just standing pat—they’re gearing up to be buyers in the trade market, aiming to bolster their roster for a serious playoff push.

This comprehensive update reveals what the Browns might be targeting, the players they are unlikely to move, and the blockbuster names that could be involved.

 

Contrary to earlier speculation that the Browns might sell off assets as part of a rebuild, Schefter reports that Cleveland is leaning toward acquiring talent rather than shedding it.

The team has already been active in recent weeks, making three trades: acquiring offensive tackle Cam Robinson, trading quarterback Joe Flacco to Cincinnati, and swapping quarterbacks with Jacksonville.

These moves signal a front office intent on building a competitive roster, not dismantling one.

 

One notable point Schefter emphasizes is that the Browns are not inclined to trade tight end David Njoku, despite him being on a contract year.

This decision raises questions about whether Cleveland plans to re-sign Njoku or risk losing him for nothing in free agency.

Either way, the team’s focus is clear: add quality young players to address their biggest needs.

 

Schefter highlights that the Browns’ most pressing needs are on offense, specifically at wide receiver and offensive line.

The team has struggled to find a consistent number one wide receiver, a glaring hole that has limited quarterback Deshaun Watson’s effectiveness.

On the offensive line, aging veterans and contract expirations mean Cleveland must plan for the future to protect its franchise quarterback and improve its running game.

Among wide receivers linked to trade talks, Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle stands out.

Waddle, a dynamic and young talent from Alabama, signed a lucrative three-year, $85 million contract extension through 2028.

Despite Miami’s poor season and status as sellers, the asking price for Waddle is steep.

Sources say the Dolphins want a “one plus” compensation—meaning at least a first-round draft pick plus additional assets.

 

Waddle’s production speaks for itself: over 1,000 receiving yards in both 2022 and 2023 seasons, with a strong touchdown record.

While some Browns fans balk at the idea of giving up a first-round pick, others recognize Waddle as a rare opportunity to land a young star locked into a long-term deal.

Comparatively, Waddle’s contract is reasonable relative to other top receivers like Jamar Chase and Tyreek Hill.

 

The Browns’ front office faces a tough decision: is adding Waddle worth mortgaging part of the team’s draft capital? The risk is clear—if the Browns acquire him but fail to contend this season, the trade could backfire.

However, if Cleveland’s defense holds strong and the offense improves, Waddle could be the missing piece to elevate the team into playoff contention.

 

On the offensive line front, another intriguing name has emerged: Jackson Powers Johnson, a young offensive lineman from the Las Vegas Raiders.

The Raiders are in full rebuild mode after a disappointing season and reportedly frustrated Powers Johnson, a 22-year-old second-round pick from Oregon, who prefers to play center but is being used as a guard.

 

 

Cleveland’s offensive line is aging, with key players like Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller, and Ethan Pocic nearing or past 30 years old and contract expirations looming.

Powers Johnson’s youth and versatility make him an attractive target.

Reports suggest the Browns could acquire him for a modest price—a fourth-round draft pick.

 

Adding Powers Johnson would help Cleveland address its offensive line depth, a critical factor for protecting Watson and improving the running game.

Even if he doesn’t play tackle, bolstering the interior line is a step forward for the Browns’ offensive unit.

 

If the Browns pull off deals for both Waddle and Powers Johnson, it would mark a significant upgrade to their roster.

Waddle would provide a potent weapon for Watson, opening up the passing game and stretching defenses.

Powers Johnson would shore up the offensive line, giving Watson more time and paving the way for a more balanced attack.

However, these moves come with risks.

Giving up a first-round pick for Waddle ties up valuable draft capital, potentially limiting the team’s ability to build through the draft.

The pressure to win immediately would increase, and failure to make the playoffs could invite criticism of the front office’s aggressiveness.

 

Similarly, investing in Powers Johnson signals a commitment to youth on the offensive line but requires patience for his development.

The Browns must balance immediate needs with long-term planning.

 

Among Browns fans, reactions are mixed. Many express excitement at the prospect of adding a star wide receiver like Waddle, seeing it as a bold move to finally address a glaring weakness.

Others caution against mortgaging the future, wary of giving up high draft picks for short-term gains.

 

The potential acquisition of Powers Johnson is generally well-received, as it addresses a less glamorous but vital part of the team.

Fans recognize that improving the offensive line is essential for any offensive success.

 

With the trade deadline just hours away, all eyes are on Cleveland’s front office.

Will they make a splash and bring in Waddle or Powers Johnson? Or will they hold back and focus on internal development? Adam Schefter promises updates as the deadline approaches, and Browns fans are advised to stay tuned and keep notifications on.

 

The stakes are high. The Browns have a top-ranked defense but an offense that has struggled to keep pace.

Strategic additions could be the difference between a playoff berth and another season of frustration.

The clock is ticking, and the NFL trade deadline drama is about to unfold.