The Cleveland Browns are reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins from the Tennessee Titans before the NFL trade deadline. This move follows the recent trade that sent Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills.
While some may view Cooper’s departure as the Browns signaling a shift toward rebuilding, it could also be seen as an effort to extract value from a player whose contributions were dwindling.
Cleveland Browns traded Cooper and a 2025 sixth-round pick for a 2024 third-round selection and a 2026 seventh-rounder, effectively securing a solid return for a player they likely intended to release in the offseason.
The Browns are still active in the trade market and might pursue Hopkins, who has a long-standing connection with quarterback Deshaun Watson from their time with the Houston Texans. Hopkins, 32, is in the final year of a two-year, $26 million contract with Tennessee, and acquiring him would require Cleveland to cover part of his $8 million base salary. The trade could cost the Browns a draft pick between the third and fifth rounds in 2025.
If Cleveland hopes to bolster its playoff chances this season, adding Hopkins would provide a much-needed No. 1 receiver for Watson. Even if Watson’s performance doesn’t improve, Hopkins could also support the development of a rookie quarterback in 2025, given that the Browns are positioned for a top draft pick.
With Watson’s fully guaranteed $230 million contract limiting roster flexibility, investing in Hopkins could align with Cleveland’s win-now approach and long-term quarterback plans.
