Browns Weigh Contract Extensions, Trade Options Amid Cap Constraints

The Cleveland Browns face several critical roster and financial decisions heading into the 2025 NFL season, particularly concerning key players like tight end David Njoku and guard Wyatt Teller, both of whom are entering the final year of their contracts. Despite Njoku's down year, the Browns may opt to extend his contract to manage cap hits and maintain his value to the team, especially given the recent addition of tight end Harold Fannin Jr. Meanwhile, the Browns are navigating a competitive quarterback battle involving Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, with the potential to trade one of the surplus quarterbacks depending on the starter selection. Offensively, the Browns are also linked to a possible trade for Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin, a proven talent who could pair well with their young quarterbacks but comes with salary cap and commitment concerns. On defense, there is interest in adding cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. on a low-risk deal to bolster the secondary, despite questions about his health. Overall, the Browns are balancing veteran extensions, potential trades, and strategic additions while managing a complicated salary cap scenario influenced by past transactions.