The Cleveland Browns are reportedly willing to trade to one of their top cornerbacks, with a separate report indicating that a top NFC team could emerge as a landing spot.
According to a report from Jason La Canfora of The Washington Post, the Browns are “open to” trading a “top” cornerback in order to save salary cap space. La Canfora didn’t specify which cornerback, but their top three guys at that position are veteran Pro Bowler Denzel Ward, rising star Martin Emerson and 2021 first-round pick Greg Newsome II:
“Multiple GMs said the Cleveland Browns made it clear they are open to dealing one of their top cornerbacks as they try to balance salaries after years of heavy spending.”
Additionally, Jeff Risdon of Lions Wire reports there are “very strong indications” that Cleveland is trying to trade Newsome, and that the Detroit Lions have made an inquiry about a possible trade for the 23-year-old:
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The Browns have until the May 2 deadline to decide if they want to pick up the fifth-year option on Newsome’s rookie deal. Ward is currently under contract through the 2027 season after signing a lucrative five-year, $100.5 million extension in the 2022 offseason.
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The 23-year-old Emerson, the No. 68 pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, is only halfway through his rookie contract with the Browns. Assuming GM Andrew Berry wants to extend Emerson, then it makes sense to trade Newsome and open up cap space to address other needs.
In 41 career games, Newsome has two interceptions and 29 pass defenses to go along with 128 combined tackles.
