Browns free agency: WR Alec Pierce could be a prize for Cleveland

SB Nation

This past season, the Cleveland Browns had issues on the offensive side of the ball. Everywhere you looked.

The run game was ranked #27, while the passing department ranked #31.

What that meant was the offense

couldn’t move the ball whatsoever. They ranked in the bottom third in just about every rushing and passing category. A good part of the issue was that the offensive line began with a very good lineup in Week 1, and towards the end of the season was just seven-time Pro Bowler Joel Bitonio, two backups, and two practice squad guys.

The receiver room was horrendous. The leading receiver for the Browns was rookie tight end Harold Fannin. The actual “receivers” all had poor seasons. Last year’s Pro Bowler, Jerry Jeudy, went from gaining 1,229 yards to just 602 yards. Jeudy ranked #61 in the league.

Cleveland’s receiver room consists of Cedric Tillman, Isaiah Bond, Jamari Thrash, Malachi Corley, Isaiah Wooden, Gage Larvadain, DeAndre Carter, and Jeudy. On the practice squad resided Kaden Davis and Luke Floriea.

Not a single name on this list created fear in any defensive coordinators. At season’s end, the receiver position had lots of issues and was just sub-par overall as a group. Was it that they just needed some seasoning to become acclimated to the professional game?

The free agent period officially begins March 9th with a three-day tampering period prior.

All 2025 NFL player contracts will expire at 4:00 p.m., New York time. The 2026 league year and free agency period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.

Here’s a receiver the Browns should look hard at signing during the free agency frenzy.

WR Alec Pierce

Indianapolis Colts

6’-3”, 211 pounds

Age: 25

PFF ranking: 81.0

NFL draft: 2022 Round 2, pick #53 (Colts)

Accolades: 0

40 time: 4.41

2025 season: 14 starts, 47 receptions, 84 targets, 1,003 yards, 6 touchdowns, 41 first down catches, 21.3 yards per reception average, YAC 174, 813 snaps (86%)

Pierce led the league in average per reception with 21.3 yards. If the strength of the passing attack is with the receiver position, then the former second-rounder Pierce should be looked at as a viable solution. He won’t come as a cost-effective option, but will help pay the bills.

He is a true downfield threat with an impressive frame. Can box out defenders with his strength and long arms. Can be placed inside at the slot or man one of the outside receiver spots, so versatility is there. Excellent blocker.

Pierce has a knack for tracking the ball in flight, as he was once a basketball player going up for rebounds. Nice size and can dominate press cornerbacks. Deceptive speed as he runs a 4.41. Very good YAC numbers. Vertical leap of 40” and deadlifted 675 pounds.

Drops are a rarity with Pierce, as he can work all three levels as a go-to target. Is a three-down player if need be and runs better-than-average routes. Excellent leaper.