The Cleveland Browns’ season is on the brink, and with that in mind, they should consider trading wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones.
There were high expectations for Peoples-Jones entering the season, as many expected him to build off last year’s production. But it appears those expectations were incredibly misguided based on his early season production in 2023. Peoples-Jones has just six receptions on 14 targets for 75 yards in four games.
DPJ has not been able to build off last season
Many were hoping that Peoples-Jones, alongside Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore, could have a breakout season of sorts. Unfortunately, the former Michigan Wolverine has reverted to his pre-2022 state. While the lack of production is not entirely his fault, as Deshaun Watson has notably struggled, it is concerning. One would think that Peoples-Jones would be able to contribute, something, anything noteworthy, but that has not been the case.
The Browns’ next opponent is San Francisco, and it is very unlikely that they come out on top in that contest. With an almost guaranteed scenario of a 2-3 record and a season that is inching closer and closer to being lost, it may be best to start shopping players that they do not appear interested in having involved in the offense.
Should the Browns shop Peoples-Jones, it is important not to have high hopes for a potential return via trade. Peoples-Jones has proven to be an incredibly average receiver who has trouble creating separation. It appears that last season may be an outlier with every other year being what he truly is. With that in mind, Cleveland should look to unload him before the deadline to avoid the temptation of signing yet another one of their draft picks to a contract extension just to prove themselves correct, as they have many times before. Getting something in return for someone who should not be here beyond this season would be in their best interest.
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