Cleveland Browns News

Home

Quizzes

Watch

Newsletter

Power Rankings

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

‘Wide Receiver Room Leaves a Lot To Be Desired’: NFL Analysis Highlights Browns’ Biggest Need

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 10:52 AM ET

The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 NFL season with a glaring issue in their wide receiver room, which lacks depth and proven talent beyond Jerry Jeudy. While Jeudy has emerged as the clear WR1, questions remain about who can reliably contribute behind him to support the passing game.

Jeudy’s strong 2024 campaign solidified his role as the team’s top target, but the supporting cast raises concerns. Diontae Johnson, signed late in free agency, has bounced between teams in recent years and remains inconsistent. Cedric Tillman has struggled with injuries, and Jamari Thrash has yet to receive significant opportunities to prove his worth. This lack of dependable options has left analysts calling for reinforcements.

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) eyes in a pass during an NFL practice at the Cleveland Browns training facility on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Berea, Ohio.

League experts have urged Cleveland to pursue a proven wide receiver to fill the void. One suggested target is Terry McLaurin, a Pro Bowl-caliber player who could immediately elevate the offense. McLaurin’s potential availability due to contract disputes with the Washington Commanders has sparked discussions about Cleveland making a bold move to acquire him. Analysts believe his experience and production would dramatically improve the team’s aerial attack.

The lack of depth in the receiver room puts additional pressure on quarterback Deshaun Watson, who is entering a pivotal season. Without a reliable group of weapons, the offense risks becoming one-dimensional, making it easier for defenses to contain. Adding a player like McLaurin would create balance and take the focus off Jeudy, allowing the offense to operate more efficiently.

NFL Analysis Points Out Cleveland Browns’ Wide Receiver Need Ahead of 2025 Season

Feb 1, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during AFC Practice for the Pro Bowl Games at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Cleveland’s wide receiver corps may need some upgrades ahead of the 2025 season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Josh Edwards for CBS Sports.

Cleveland had five picks within the top 100 overall, so there was an opportunity to address multiple needs. The wide receiver room leaves a lot to be desired. Jerry Jeudy is now the focal point of the pass game and Cedric Tillman and Jamari Thrash will be relied upon heavily. Diontae Johnson was signed late in free agency, but is on his fifth team in two calendar years.

Cleveland’s inability to address this need during the offseason only heightens the urgency. The Browns’ success in 2025 could hinge on their ability to bolster the position. A trade for a high-impact wide receiver may be the key to unlocking the full potential of their offense.

Jan 4, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

As training camp approaches, Cleveland faces mounting pressure to make the necessary adjustments. The wide receiver room remains a critical weakness, and addressing it could determine whether the Browns can contend in a competitive AFC North.

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) catches a pass in the end zone for two points over New York Giants safety Dane Belton (24) during the second half of an NFL football game at Huntington Bank Field, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: