With an opportunity to draft a quarterback in the upcoming NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns may look to replace Deshaun Watson with a cost-effective option. However, if the Browns’ front office doesn’t believe the right quarterback is available with the No. 2 pick, there are a few intriguing free-agent options who could be a fit in Cleveland.
One key concern for the Browns is avoiding the mistake of choosing a quarterback they believe can turn the franchise around, only for that player to become a bust. Given the current frustrations among players and fans with the organization’s direction, the last thing Cleveland can afford is another misstep at the quarterback position.
Still, a player like Justin Fields might now be available. According to a report by Joe Rutter of TribLive, the Pittsburgh Steelers could allow Fields to test free agency.
“Art Rooney II just met with a handful of reporters, myself included. He said after finalizing the coaching staff (with potential changes coming), the top priority will be evaluating the QB position and deciding whether to sign Russell Wilson or Justin Fields. He doubts both will return,” Rutter reported on January 27.
Browns Predicted to Land Fields
If the Steelers decide to let Fields test the free-agent market and show no interest in bringing him back, the Browns would have a clear chance to secure a replacement for Watson.
Fields comes with his own set of questions, but considering Cleveland’s struggles with Watson, even average quarterback play could make the Browns significantly better. For the expected low cost, Fields could be an attractive option. Brent Hertzenberg of TWSN even predicts Fields will land with the Browns in free agency.
“The Browns are in a tough spot with their quarterback situation. The Deshaun Watson fiasco is going to haunt them for years, but they still have a talented roster capable of competing at a high level. They are $30 million OVER the salary cap, but cuts and contract restructuring will likely free up space. Drafting a quarterback like Sanders or Ward is possible, but imagine the backlash of another Browns quarterback bust from a top pick.
“Justin Fields is an affordable option likely seeking a guaranteed starting role on a short-term ‘prove it’ deal. The Browns can offer that and give Fields a chance to revive his career with a franchise desperate for a savior. Cleveland also needs to use its draft picks and free-agent funds on adding weapons and addressing aging players in the trenches,” Hertzenberg wrote on January 27.
How Fields Could Help the Browns
It would be unfair to label Justin Fields as the perfect quarterback for the Browns, but he showed promise last season with the Steelers, delivering better performances than he ever managed with the Chicago Bears. Fields helped lead the Steelers to a 4-2 record as a starter, offering glimpses of potential.
His numbers—1,160 passing yards, five touchdowns, and one interception—weren’t remarkable, but two seasons ago, the Browns demonstrated that they only needed average quarterback play to make noise in the AFC.
If Cleveland’s front office were to land Fields and surround him with solid pieces using their limited resources after addressing their salary cap situation, the Browns could take a significant step forward. It wouldn’t solve all their issues, but it would be a welcome improvement for a franchise eager for change.
