The Cleveland Browns approached the 2025 offseason determined to keep their defensive core intact. They averted a major setback by convincing star pass-rusher Myles Garrett to stay, ensuring their elite defense remains a strength.
However, in a loaded AFC North, standing still won’t cut it. To stay in the playoff race, the Browns must boost their offense and bring in more playmakers.
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Wide Receiver Remains a Glaring Weakness for the Browns
The Browns have made some roster improvements, but wide receiver remains their biggest concern. Deshaun Watson’s situation is still unclear, and the offensive line remains a liability after earning a disappointing 59.8 PFF grade in 2024. Without another reliable pass-catcher, Cleveland could once again fall short despite fielding a defense that ranked in the top 10 in EPA per play last season.
Jerry Jeudy delivered a career-high 1,229 receiving yards, and Cedric Tillman flashed potential before suffering a late-season concussion. However, the rest of the receiving corps lacks proven production. Jamari Thrash, David Bell, and Michael Woods haven’t established consistent roles.
Diontae Johnson, acquired in free agency, adds speed but raises concerns after switching teams three times in a year. Meanwhile, Elijah Moore was once seen as a key piece signed with Buffalo. So far, Cleveland hasn’t done enough to upgrade its passing attack.
A Missed Opportunity in the Draft
Cleveland pulled off a smart draft-day trade, moving down with Jacksonville to pick Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham while also securing an extra 2026 first-round pick.
However, the move came at a cost they passed on elite receiver prospect Travis Hunter. For a team in urgent need of receiving help, that decision could come back to bite them.
Alec Pierce: The Perfect Fit for Cleveland
That’s why the Browns should explore trade options—and Alec Pierce might be the ideal fit.
Pierce is heading into the final year of his rookie contract and finds himself buried in a deep Colts receiving corps. With Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs locked in as starters and Adonai Mitchell stepping up as a promising second-year talent, Pierce’s opportunities are shrinking. The arrival of tight end Tyler Warren only increases the competition for targets.
Despite the crowd, Pierce delivered in 2024, racking up 824 receiving yards, seven touchdowns, and leading the league with 22.3 yards per catch. His size, speed, and ability to stretch the field make him the kind of vertical threat Cleveland’s offense sorely lacks.
A Low-Cost, High-Reward Option
Alec Pierce, just 25, offers untapped potential and aligns well with Cleveland’s offensive priorities. His vertical speed would complement Jerry Jeudy’s precise route-running, giving the Browns a legitimate deep threat. Even better, Cleveland could likely acquire him for a future Day 2 pick—an excellent bargain considering his age and skillset.
Although trade buzz around Pierce has persisted for months, the Colts have taken a cautious approach. They reportedly want to evaluate Adonai Mitchell’s performance in training camp before making a move. That hesitation opens a narrow but valuable window for the Browns’ front office to make a bold play.
Time to Act Before It’s Too Late
Cleveland’s defense gives them a shot to compete, but in an AFC North stacked with elite quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson and a rising Steelers squad the Browns can’t rely on grinding out defensive battles every week. They must boost their offense with more speed and stronger depth at wide receiver.
Trading for Alec Pierce won’t instantly turn them into Super Bowl contenders, but it would be a smart, strategic move to plug a critical gap. He’s cost-effective, fits the system, and offers the explosive playmaking Cleveland currently lacks.
If the Browns want to capitalize on Myles Garrett’s prime and give their offense a real shot, targeting Pierce could be their best remaining option.