The Cleveland Browns receiving corp isn’t great but it is improved

The Cleveland Browns have upgraded their receivers, even if they aren’t world-beaters.

Everyone knew the Cleveland Browns had a lot of work to do in the 2023 offseason. The team had to focus on the defense and did just that, at least on paper, by improving several key spots via free agency. They added several defensive tackles, and a solid starting safety while re-signing several key linebackers. Despite the obvious need to improve key spots on defense, the Browns couldn’t just dedicate resources to the defense alone. The offense needed to be re-tooled, to better take advantage of Deshaun Watson.

Watson and his backup Jacoby Brissett struggled to move the ball in big chunks through the air for a variety of reasons. Most of it had to do with some poor pass blocking from key players on the offensive line, and a lackluster receiving corp that has yet to fully show off its potential.

The Browns feel comfortable with Amari Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones, but beyond those two targets, the team really doesn’t feel comfortable with any other guy. Anthony Schwartz has struggled and will likely be cut at some point during the summer, and now second-year players David Bell and Michael Woods came off very disappointing rookie seasons.

Upgrading the receivers was key for the Browns.

The Cleveland Browns have improved their receiving corp but it’s not as good as it should be

The Browns have signed and traded for two receivers so far. The first is from New York Jets malcontent Elijah Moore, a receiver so had to deal with, that the Jets cut bait with him after just two seasons. The former second-round pick never lived up to expectations in New York but the Browns hoping they can unlock his next level.

The other new arrival is Marquise Goodwin. Goodwin is a very good slot option for teams, but he’s limited in how good he can be. He’s only hit 900 yards in his career once and that was six years ago. Goodwin may not be a major impact player, but the Browns can at least rely on some good route-running from him, unlike Moore, who is not known for his route-running abilities.

The Browns didn’t get any major players to come in and compete for Peoples-Jones’ spot, but they’re far more reliable than Schwartz, Bell, and Woods. So while we can debate if the team gave up too much, or paid too much to get Goodwin and Moore, there is no debate they are better three and four options over anyone else on the roster.