Five Potential Replacements If Josh Gordon Doesn’t Come Back

After the news broke about Cleveland Browns’ wide receiver Josh Gordon missing the start of this year’s training camp to deal with “health and treatment plans”, it’s lead many to speculate on the state of Gordon.

Though NFL sources have said that Gordon did not have any slip ups or failed tests, it does raise some concerns. However, in today’s NFL, thing’s can change at the drop of a dime.

So let’s assume that Gordon ends up getting a suspension because a new piece of information came out. Who are some of the suitable replacements? Here’s five potential ideas:

 

1. Dez Bryant- Every couple of weeks, Bryant’s name is thrown up around Cleveland. This usually causes the same reaction, “no”. At 29 years old, the former Dallas Cowboys’ receiver potentially has a few years left to be productive but this all sounds the same to Browns’ fans. At this stage of his career, Bryant can be compared to Dwayne Bowe, Devone Bess and Kenny Britt when they joined Cleveland and it didn’t pan out. If it really came down to it, Bryant could be an option, just don’t expect him to wear orange and brown anytime soon.

2. Odell Beckham Jr- The past week has been nothing but fuel to the fire when it comes to Odell Beckham Jr. It all started with a tweet on July 16th that showed quarterback Baker Mayfield working out with Beckham Jr. and wide receiver Jarvis Landry. A couple days later, he was working out with tight end David Njoku and running back Duke Johnson.

While a trade is unlikely, it made waves to the point that even the most prominent Browns fans have questioned. Given that the New York Giants just paid running back Saquon Barkley a lot of money, it could drive his price tag up even more. Beckham wants a big contract, the Giants may not want to pay it and if they could get something out of it like picks or talent, why not? Cleveland has the money and they have his friend from college, Landry. It’s not as crazy as it may seem.

3. Jeremy Maclin- Last offseason, Browns were clamoring over Maclin and how bad they wanted him. After a tough year in Baltimore though, they simmered down. While not an overly attractive option, Maclin wouldn’t be a bad player to look into. Prior to this past season, he had one struggling season which was the year before. As long as he can get open, quarterback Tyrod Taylor may be able to work with him.

4. Eric Decker- There is mainly a veteran trying to maintain himself in the NFL. Decker hasn’t been awful, he’s just been in bad situations. After missing a good portion of the 2016-17 season, he tried to come back with the Tennessee Titans but was overshadowed by Rishard Matthews, Delanie Walker and a good running back core. While he wouldn’t be a star in Cleveland, he would fit into the “hungry” theme that the Browns have been building up this offseason.

5. Rashard Higgins- Why not promote within? Higgins hasn’t played badly, in fact he looked to form in the last game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. While Ricardo Louis could also be considered due to having more yardage, Higgins has a better catch percentage and less drops. There’s a reason why they gave him the nickname “Hollywood” so it’s now time for him to earn his star.