Browns expected to make a costly decision with CB Greg Newsome II despite trade rumors that have been floated

Despite trade rumors each of the last couple of seasons, it appears that Greg Newsome’s future in Cleveland is stable for the next two seasons.

According to Mary Kay Cabot, the Browns are expected to pick up Newsome’s fifth-year option ahead of the May 2 deadline.

It’ll be a costly decision for the Browns, who will have to pay Newsome $13.37 million during the 2025 season. Newsome is scheduled to make just north of $4 million for the 2024 campaign.

After being a late first-round pick back in 2021, Newsome started 11 games as a boundary corner opposite Denzel Ward. Cleveland hit on CB Martin Emerson Jr. the following draft in the third round and his length made more sense on the outside, so Newsome was pushed to the slot.

The 2022 season was a bit shaky for Newsome despite starting 15 games. Playing in the slot under then-defensive coordinator Joe Woods was not working for Newsome and his future became cloudy. All hope was restored in 2023 under Jim Schwartz and Newsome had his first two interceptions, including one for a touchdown.

Newsome is good for a couple of games missed each season, which has been the case since he was drafted. But the Browns believe in investing heavily in the cornerback position and they want to keep three above-average ones on the field.

Cleveland has the ability to move Newsome outside when needed to rotate or due to injury to either Emerson or Ward and that makes him more valuable to them. His upbeat attitude and celebrating ways are contagious for the defense.

While it is a bit costly, especially for a player who plays mainly in the slot now, the Browns want to keep Newsome around and a part of the team.