Many theorized the Cleveland Browns would consider reuniting with a former quarterback at the trade deadline amid Deshaun Waton's injury. That actually did turn out to be the case, as Cleveland reportedly targeted former backup and current Washington Commanders QB Jacoby Brisett on Tuesday.
However, a deal never came to fruition. While we'll never know exactly why, price was likely a deciding factor.
#Browns best offer for Jacoby Brissett was a 6th round pick, per @JPFinlayNBCS pic.twitter.com/MCvBj5G9Dk
— MoreForYouCleveland (@MoreForYou_CLE) October 31, 2023
JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reported Cleveland's "best" offer to Washington was a sixth-round pick in exchange for Brissett.
While by no means a mind-blowing offer, it's in line with the going rate for backups. Ex-Brown Joshua Dobbs was dealt, along with a seventh-round pick, to the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday for a 2024 sixth-rounder. After the preseason, Cleveland also sent Dobbs to the Arizona Cardinals for a fifth-rounder.
Perhaps Andrew Berry was playing a little bit of hardball, but he didn't need to be overly desperate. A backup upgrade surely would've been nice, yet there's a case it wasn't an absolute must, especially if he has knowledge Watson will be back sooner than later.
There's also a chance the Commanders had an unrealistic asking price for the veteran QB. NFL insider Albert Breer said Washington was seeking a Day 2 pick.
The Commanders have taken calls on backup QB Jacoby Brissett, but the price has been prohibitive for other teams—they’ve asked for a Day 2 pick. We’ll see if the price comes down with Josh Dobbs going for a late-round pick swap.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 31, 2023
A second- or third-round selection is incredibly steep for a guy who might only make a handful of starts down the stretch.
Berry would've been more aggressive if he felt backup was a bigger need. Considering he stood firm on his offer and didn't cave, that shows some confidence in rolling the dice on Walker during the second half of the season.
Now we'll wait and see if Berry's gamble on the former XFL standout pays off.
There's still deals to be had for sports bettors after the deadline, thanks to Bet365. They're offering $150 in bonus bets to new users who simply sign up through Factory of Sadness' exclusive link and place a first wager of just $5. That's one amazing offer, but it won't last long, so make sure you claim it today!
21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
In other Browns news: