Browns’ veteran playmaker makes an admission that could be foreshadowing a problem down the road for Cleveland

The Cleveland Browns opted not to make any major upgrades to the wide receiver room this offseason. Instead, it looks like they’re relying on internal development to elevate that group to the next level.

Cedric Tillman is expected to have a key role in his third season, playing alongside Jerry Jeudy—assuming the former Vol can stay healthy. Jamari Thrash is another receiver who should see more opportunities in his second year.

That said, the Browns did make one minor free agency move at the position—and that player has made an admission that could be a bit concerning.

Browns WR Diontae Johnson doesn’t seem to be a fan of the cold  

Cleveland signed Diontae Johnson to a one-year deal after a disappointing 2023 season in which he spent time with three different teams and struggled to make an impact. The former Pro Bowler recently revealed on the Sports & Suite podcast that he opted not to play in a game with the Baltimore Ravens due in part to the cold.

“End of the third going into the fourth, they were like, ‘Tae, we need you,’” Johnson explained. “I was like, ‘Nah, I don’t think it’s a good idea for me.’ Like, my legs are already ice cold and I didn’t wanna go out there and put bad stuff on film.”

The game in question was a Week 13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles for the Ravens, where the temperature hovered in the 40s. Johnson’s admission is somewhat of a red flag, considering the frigid conditions he’ll face in Cleveland during the winter months—especially if he’s expected to be a key contributor. Baltimore cut Johnson shortly after that incident. 

The good news for the Browns is that Johnson has every reason to make this work. Cleveland was the only team to offer him a contract in free agency, and last season cast a shadow over what had previously been a promising career.

The best-case scenario for the Browns is that they’ve found a steal on a one-year deal in a player who once topped 1,000 receiving yards. If it doesn’t work out, the team isn’t risking much.