The Verdict
So is Williams still an option?
In theory, yes.
If he’s released or the Redskins decide to accept a reasonable offer, sure. But the problem comes from the cost of Williams’ next contract, his lack of reliability, and the opportunity cost. Is it really worth it for the Browns to part with capital and allocate a significant portion (approximately half) of their remaining cap space to a 32-year-old tackle with injury problems? Or would it be better to save that money for the impending extensions for Myles Garrett, Denzel Ward, Baker Mayfield, and others, and just get their next LT from this excellent draft class? T
he draft is never a sure thing, but neither is Williams given his injury history. This front office isn’t keen on overpaying for talent, especially when that talent is unreliable (Christian Kirksey) or past their prime. Williams to Cleveland is possible, but not probable.
The better move is to draft a tackle at 10 – if you’re drafting him that high, you obviously think he’s good enough to warrant the selection, and therefore is almost certainly good enough to start immediately.
Protecting Baker Mayfield has to be Cleveland’s priority right now. But going after Trent Williams isn’t the way to do it.