The Cleveland Browns have taken some big swings over the last decade when it comes to trades to acquire players. They have hit on a few – like the trade for Amari Cooper – but there have certainly been several that have left the fans wanting more.
Deshaun Watson (2022)
The clear worst trade in Browns history is the decision to trade for Watson in 2022. This wasn’t just a terrible trade by Cleveland standards; it is considered to be one of the worst in the league’s history. Given the injuries, off-field
controversy, and disappointing on-field performance, Watson never came close to living up to the Browns’ investment of a fully guaranteed $230 million contract and the multiple first-round draft picks they gave up to acquire him.
Odell Beckham Jr. (2019)
The day that Cleveland traded for Beckham Jr. was very exciting in Browns history. There was so much optimism around the team and hope for what the future could look like. Unfortunately, Beckham Jr. never quite clicked with Baker Mayfield, which ultimately led to his release from the team.
Honorable Mention: Jerry Jeudy (2024)
While the trade for Jeudy is still too early to make any definitive statements, he has certainly underperformed expectations during his time in Cleveland. Fortunately, the team did not have to give up significant draft capital to acquire Jeudy, which helps soften the blow. There is still hope that Jeudy can turn things around, but it has not been promising thus far.
Let me know what you think in the comments – Who are the most disappointing Browns trades to acquire talent in the last 10 years besides Watson?
