The Cleveland Browns' decision to move Trent Richardson isn't all that surprising when you consider the current makeup of their roster and the man who's running the show, Joe Banner.
This offense is a mess. Richardson wasn't the problem, but this trade very well could be part of the solution. The Browns are desperate for a franchise quarterback and also need a reliable weapon on the outside. I assume the Browns will use their original first-round draft pick to select a quarterback, then use the first-rounder acquired from the Indianapolis Colts in the Richardson deal to bring in an explosive receiver.
What will the Browns do at running back? Well, Banner came to the Browns from the Philadelphia Eagles, who were able to reel in two very talented running backs without spending a first-round pick. Brian Westbrook was selected in the third round of the 2002 NFL Draft, and the Eagles took his replacement, LeSean McCoy, in the second round of the 2009 draft. I believe this is where the Browns will try to secure Richardson's replacement in the upcoming draft.
As bad as the Browns have looked on offense, they have one of the NFL's better defenses. They have pass rushers, run stuffers and one of the best cornerbacks in the league. They won't need to devote too many resources to that side of the ball in the next few draft classes. They can put all of their focus on building a credible offense. That project will begin this spring, with the benefit of two first-round draft picks.
Follow Daniel Jeremiah on Twitter @MoveTheSticks.
