NFL insider shares that the Cleveland Browns were turned down the chance to make a blockbuster trade for a star playmaker

The Cleveland Browns struggled mightily on offense last season, and that was the single biggest reason they went 3-14 just a year after making the playoffs.

To address those issues, Cleveland made several additions to boost their offense. The Browns added two running backs in the draft — Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson — and are excited about tight end Harold Fannin Jr. They also took two shots at the quarterback position by drafting Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

If the Browns were going to make a major splash on offense this offseason, it was expected to come via trade — but that hasn’t happened. However, one NFL insider revealed that the Browns did show interest in acquiring a top-tier wide receiver.

Cleveland Browns Were Interested in Saints WR Chris Olave

According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Browns were among the teams that expressed interest in trading for former first-round pick Chris Olave. Ultimately, the New Orleans Saints chose not to deal the star wideout.

“The Saints got inquiries from the Browns and Steelers early in the offseason, and rebuffed them, and Olave’s had a really nice offseason since. Maybe someone blows New Orleans away with an offer. But he’s not on the block, and I have a hard time thinking he’s going to be traded.” — Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated

Olave was limited to just eight games last season and has dealt with concussions during the first three years of his career. However, the former Ohio State standout posted 1,000-yard seasons in both of his first two years. His best campaign came in 2023, when he played in 16 games and recorded 1,123 receiving yards and five touchdowns.

Jerry Jeudy had a breakout season for the Browns last year, surpassing the 1,000-yard mark, and enters 2025 as the team’s top receiving option. Tight end David Njoku will remain a key part of the offense, while the Browns are hopeful that Cedric Tillman and Jamari Thrash can continue to develop.

Adding Olave would have given the Browns another elite playmaker — a player who could make multiple Pro Bowl appearances if he can stay healthy.