The Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans embarked on contrasting journeys into the offseason, yet both teams face considerable uncertainty. Despite enduring a plethora of injuries in the 2023-24 season, the Browns clinched a hard-earned playoff spot, while the Titans navigate through significant changes in their leadership and roster composition.
As they prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, the Browns and Titans engaged in a trade deal on Friday. Cleveland traded offensive tackle Leroy Watson IV to Tennessee in exchange for a 2024 seventh-round pick, as reported by the Browns’ official X account. Watson, who went undrafted in 2022 and had brief stints with the Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers’ practice squads, saw limited playing time with the Browns, logging just 55 snaps last season.
While this trade may not immediately captivate local fans or the broader NFL community, its significance should not be underestimated. Watson faced the possibility of being cut by the Browns during training camp, making this trade a low-risk move for general manager Andrew Berry.
On the Titans’ side, offensive line coach Bill Callahan, father of new head coach Brian Callahan, has a prior connection with Watson from their time together in Cleveland. This familiarity likely influenced the Titans’ decision to acquire Watson with a late-round draft pick. Although the outcome of this trade remains uncertain, it underscores the active nature of both teams’ front offices as they explore potential roster adjustments.
For the Browns, addressing concerns such as injuries and an aging defensive line will be crucial in the upcoming season. General manager Berry will aim to make the most of their draft picks, particularly in securing additional pass-rushing talent and bolstering offensive line depth. Meanwhile, the Titans, with their weakest-ranked wall of protection according to Pro Football Focus, are focused on fortifying their offensive line to support young quarterback Will Levis. The additions of center Lloyd Cushenberry and guard Saahdiq Charles are steps in the right direction, but more work lies ahead.
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, scheduled for April 25-27, both the Browns and Titans have ample opportunities to address their respective needs and enhance their competitiveness in the league.
