5 Cleveland Browns who are on the bubble for a return in 2023

Donovan Peoples-Jones

Donovan Peoples-Jones is in a unique place for the team going forward. On one hand, he has another year of controllability, but on the other hand, the team needs better than he can provide as a starting wide receiver. He’s fine. That’s the best you can say about him as a wide receiver. He’s not a playmaker, he’s not someone you can go over the top with at a reliable clip, and he’s not a good blocker.

Those are just the facts. He is exceeding the expectations of a sixth-round pick, however, but we should also point out that isn’t saying much, as most sixth round guys are out of the league in three years. It’s just the same thing as being a great wide receiver option.

Now, Peoples-Jones has another year on his contract and many in the Browns fandom would like him back. I’m among those, I just don’t think retaining Peoples-Jones should get in the way of going out to get a complimentary option for Amari Cooper, or even a better option than Cooper. Cooper’s been fine, but he’s not the No. 1 everyone thought he’d be. The Browns need more help at receiver and leaning on a guy like Peoples-Jones is more than likely going to blow up in the team’s face.

If he has to be traded to make room for a more talented option, I’d be ok with that. If he’s re-signed to a team-friendly deal, I’d be alright with that too. But should a better player become avalible and Peoples-Jones has to be involved to get said better player, the Browns should help him pack his bags as they push him on the first plane out.