Browns Need to Tackle Growing Issue That Could Cause Major Problems
The Cleveland Browns have a developing issue that could escalate quickly if they don’t address it. As the NFL Draft approaches, much of the attention is on what the Browns will do with the No. 2 overall pick and whether they’ll draft a quarterback.
That’s understandable, given the Browns’ struggling quarterback situation last season, and their need to secure a solution at the position.
But there’s another, less-discussed problem that Cleveland needs to tackle: cornerback.
Here’s why: the Browns currently have three solid cornerbacks on their roster—Denzel Ward, who’s one of the league’s top corners, Greg Newsome II, and Martin Emerson Jr. However, the latter two are set to hit free agency next offseason, and Ward has a concerning history of six concussions in his career.
So while it may not seem like a pressing issue right now, Cleveland faces a significant challenge in its secondary that needs attention.
Ward is signed through 2027, but he has never played a full season since entering the NFL in 2018. When healthy, he’s an elite talent, but his injury history is a concern—and that’s part of why the Browns might even want to consider trading him.
As for Newsome and Emerson, neither has shown enough consistency to make Cleveland comfortable committing to them long term.
The good news is that this year’s draft class features a number of strong cornerback prospects. While quarterback, wide receiver, and other positions are certainly bigger needs, the Browns would be wise not to overlook the cornerback position.
Does this mean Cleveland should trade up for another first-round pick to grab a corner? Not necessarily. But it would be smart to target a cornerback on Day 2 of the draft, or even in the fourth round, where solid prospects should still be available.
The Browns can’t afford to overlook this gap in their roster. They need to take a close look at all their needs and address them, including cornerback, later this month.
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