The Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans embarked on contrasting journeys into the offseason, yet both face significant uncertainties. Despite enduring a barrage of injuries last season, the Browns clinched a hard-earned playoff spot, while the Titans are undergoing notable changes in leadership and roster composition.
As they gear up for the 2024 NFL Draft, both teams aim to address their respective concerns. However, they kicked off their offseason dealings with a trade agreement.
According to the Browns’ official account, Cleveland is sending offensive tackle Leroy Watson IV to Tennessee in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the upcoming draft. Watson, who went undrafted in 2022 and had stints with the Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers practice squads, saw limited action with the Browns last season, logging only 55 snaps.
While this trade may not generate much excitement among local fans or across the league initially, its significance shouldn’t be overlooked. Watson was a potential candidate for roster cuts during training camp, so this move could carry minimal risk for Browns general manager Andrew Berry.
On the other side, Titans offensive line coach Bill Callahan, who has a connection to Watson from their time together in Cleveland, evidently values the lineman and advocated for using a late-round pick to acquire him. While the outcome of this transaction remains uncertain, it highlights the ongoing strategic maneuvers within both organizations’ front offices.
Browns can make every pick count, while Titans try to fix O-Line
The Browns are facing concerns about injuries and an aging defensive line heading into the next season, making Andrew Berry’s performance in Detroit crucial at the end of April. Acquiring another pass-rusher is paramount, and bolstering the offensive line depth is also necessary. The late rounds of the NFL Draft can be decisive in building a complete roster.
This seventh-round pick could further enhance Berry’s success. On the Titans’ side, Leroy Watson IV brings familiarity with Bill Callahan’s coaching style and can provide stability during practice sessions. Given the Titans’ ranking as having the weakest offensive line in the NFL according to Pro Football Focus, additional reinforcements in the trenches are imperative. While the additions of center Lloyd Cushenberry and guard Saahdiq Charles are promising, more work remains to be done.
With the Titans focusing on supporting young quarterback Will Levis, and the Browns aiming to fortify their lines to compensate for quarterback Deshaun Watson’s absence due to injury last season, the 2024 NFL Draft holds ample opportunities for these often underestimated teams. Scheduled from April 25-27, the draft presents a chance for both franchises to address key areas and strengthen their competitive position.
