As the Browns crawl toward the trade deadline, they do so sincerely believing they will not trade All-Pro left tackle Joe Thomas, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
However, there are some stars in Cleveland who have been tossed around in a few proposals. Among them? Cornerback Joe Haden.
According to Rapoport, Haden's name has been mentioned ahead of Tuesday's deadline. Once thought of as one of the NFL's top shut-down corners after Pro Bowl appearances in 2013 and 2014, Haden has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons. Last year he played just five games due to concussion issues.
Issues aside, adding a 27-year-old with excellent coverage skills could be attractive to a contender. One of the silver linings for Haden's time with the Browns is that he played with a cavalcade of coordinators over his first six NFL seasons, which means there are probably some interested clubs who could get him integrated into the lineup fast.
The bonus for Cleveland would be yet another draft pick or two to add to their 2017 stockpile. At 0-7, the Browns are obviously thinking of the future.
Another intriguing player potentially on the trading block? Former Jets first-round pick Sheldon Richardson, according to Rapoport. The 2013 first-round pick is incredibly versatile for his size. Near 300 pounds, he has played linebacker, defensive and and defensive tackle for coach Todd Bowles but has also gotten himself into trouble over the years which tended to offset some of his brighter moments.
General manager Mike Maccagnan's decision to sign Mo Wilkerson to a long-term deal this offseason likely was the first sign that the team would eventually move on from Richardson and allocate money elsewhere. With just one year left on his contract, the Jets might be looking to optimize their return.
» Rapoport also said the Cowboys could be convinced to deal running back Darren McFadden should the right offer come along. That offer, though, would need to be significant.
Adding to the complications, McFadden is still on the non-football injury list after suffering a fractured elbow during the offseason. Would a contender needing a little security at the position take that risk?
