2 Players The Browns Should Move On From In 2022

He is projected to finish the 2021 season with 37 receptions for 348 yards and three total scores.

If that holds true, those stats will be the lowest since his rookie year in 2016.

It’s not that Hooper has been a bust in Cleveland.

As a matter of fact, the 13 games he started last year were a career-high.

Hooper has bailed Cleveland out of some tough games.

If anything, his low stats could be attributed to the offensive scheme, the quarterback, or the fact the Browns have three quality starting tight ends.

Hooper went from Matt Ryan in Atlanta to Mayfield in Cleveland.

Baker’s injuries and inconsistencies this season have hurt all Browns receivers.

Also, after threatening numerous times that he wanted to leave the organization, Njoku committed in August to staying.

It can be argued that Njoku is the more athletic tight end of the duo and the guy the Browns will want to hang onto long term.

In addition, Cleveland has Harrison Bryant, who is talented in his own right.

Hooper would prove to be a valuable trade piece for a team in need of a starting tight end.

In return, the Browns could receive draft picks and/or another player of need.

Or, they can bundle acquired Hooper picks in exchange for more draft capital.

Since the Browns would owe Hooper a pile of cash, he would need to be traded after June 1 this summer.

That would save the team over $7.5 million in 2022 cap space.

2. Jarvis Landry

Much like Hooper, Landry’s production has dipped since 2020.

In 2019, his first year with the Browns, Landry was a beast, hauling in 83 receptions for 1,174 yards (a career-high) and six touchdowns.

His numbers in the last two seasons have shrunk, but that can be attributed to injuries and Mayfield’s issues this season.

Landry is a top flight receiving threat and is still considered one of the best pass catchers in the game.

Unfortunately, 2021 has been a nightmare for him.

Landry’s injury earlier this season, and the Browns’ offensive struggles, have led to a career-low 33 receptions.

Even more startling, he has not found the end zone as a receiver (he has two rushing touchdowns).

Landry had a 111 yard receiving day against the Ravens before the bye week.

However, that was his first 100+ yard receiving day dating back to last season.

As much as the Browns need good receiving threats, it might be time to move on from Landry.

OBJ’s release last month sent a signal that the team is reassessing their current roster as well as the future.

Landry is only 29 years old and has good years ahead.

A trade should net at least a third-round pick in return.

Even better, a trade after June 1 means the Browns gain over $15 million in 2022 cap savings.