Should the Browns Trade for Gerald McCoy?
There are numerous questions surrounding defensive tackle, Gerald McCoy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The newly hired Bruce Arians (head coach) has yet to commit to the 10 year veteran. Arians didn’t list off McCoy’s name when talking about the defensive line and even specifically stated that McCoy wasn’t the disruptive force he once was.
These comments have brought on tons of speculation about his future. Plus, not showing up to voluntary workouts doesn’t help quiet the noise. The defensive tackle clapped back in an interview telling people not to question him or his dedication because he is out here doing his own workout program.
So let’s look at some numbers real quick. McCoy still has three years left on his contract and is currently owed $13 million for this upcoming season. Tampa Bay is $1.8 million under the cap but has yet to sign any rookies. They have until the end of July to get those deals done so they have some decisions to make soon.
As for unproductive, Gerald led the Buccaneers in quarterback hits with 21 and registered six sacks too. He also had six sacks and 22 quarterback hits in 2017. I’ll gladly take that production to add to Cleveland’s defensive front four.
It wouldn’t surprise me if John Dorsey wants to upgrade an already improved defensive line. He traded for Olivier Vernon and added Sheldon Richardson via free agency to a group that already includes Myles Garrett and Larry Ogunjobi. It wouldn’t be just an upgrade either; it would add much needed depth. The Browns would also be getting a three time All-Pro and a six time Pro Bowl caliber player who has just fewer than 300 tackles and 55 sacks in his career.
This deal makes sense for Cleveland, but what about Tampa Bay? The Buccaneers haven’t publicly stated that McCoy is on the trade block because it could hurt his value, but I guarantee they wanted to field offers during the draft in order to get some draft compensation back or even a player of value. However, the draft came and went without even talks of a deal. If Cleveland decides to engage in a trade they could offer Duke Johnson because running back is an area of concern for Tampa Bay.
Personally, I wouldn’t even consider shipping out Duke. Not when Kareem Hunt is suspended for eight games. Johnson is going to be heavily relied on during Hunt’s absence. This being the case, Johnson is more valuable than defensive line depth, but maybe that’s just me. Would you trade Duke Johnson for Gerald McCoy?
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