The Cleveland Browns are hoping that they can get things back on track during the 2023 season after a tumultuous 2022. Quarterback Deshaun Watson getting back on track would go a long way for the franchise after they paid a premium in draft capital and a new contract, to bring him aboard last offseason.
Watson was certainly rusty when he took the field after serving an 11-game suspension and sitting out the 2021 season, unhappy with the Houston Texans. The Browns are certainly hoping they get the Watson who led the NFL in passing yards in 2020.
The front office did a good job of improving the supporting cast around him to help ensure the bounceback occurs. Elijah Moore was acquired in a trade from the New York Jets and Cedric Tillman was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. They will join Amari Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones, who were a strong one-two punch last season.
If the Browns are going to make another move to upgrade the skill positions around Watson, it will likely come in the backfield. Cleveland opted not to re-sign Kareem Hunt this offseason, leaving a void in their offense.
For the last four seasons, Hunt has been the passing game complement to Nick Chubb, who remains one of the best early-down runners in the NFL. The team did trade for Pierre Strong from the New England Patriots and has rookie Jerome Ford listed as Chubb’s backup currently.
But, it wouldn’t hurt to add another weapon to the mix. One player who could pique their interest is Cordarrelle Patterson of the Atlanta Falcons. Alex Sabri of ClutchPoints suggested the Browns make a move for the versatile veteran and it would make a lot of sense.
After starting his career as a wide receiver and special teams star, Patterson transitioned to running back full-time with the Falcons. Atlanta head coach Arthur Smith unlocked the potential that Patterson had always possessed, as he turned in productive seasons.
Alas, his role with the team has diminished. With the rule changes, the impact of kick returns has been minimized again. With the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Falcons selected running back Bijan Robinson. A three-down star, Robinson pushed Patterson further down the depth chart.
The Browns could likely acquire him for a late-round draft pick; the Falcons don’t have a role for him and the running back market is already depressed. He would bring a veteran presence to rely on in the backfield as Pierre’s 14 career carries is all the experience the Browns have behind Chubb.
