The Browns did get a receiver in the second round of April's draft—Greg Little—but should the team even consider signing Plaxico Burress? The former star wideout for the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants was released from jail on Monday after nearly two years.
To answer the opening question, yes, Cleveland should consider signing the 34-year-old veteran. Here's why...
Although he's been away from the game for two seasons, Burress showed his dedication to football by staying in shape. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said Burress ran routes outside despite having no quarterback to deliver him the football.
Burress is a veteran offensive weapon, something the Browns lack. He has great knowledge as a player who is responsible for sending home the greatest regular season team in NFL history in the Super Bowl (vs New England, 2007-08).
He has the ability to stretch the field. Colt McCoy is not (yet) a downfield thrower, but Burress can certainly make him more comfortable to the idea. Still, as a developing quarterback, McCoy needs confidence to help this offense grow.
The Browns can actually seriously contend with the acquisition of any veteran offensive threats. The defense, especially the secondary will do its job. The Browns can't win with developing receivers because it's by far the hardest position to experience success at as a youngster.
Plaxico would love a chance to play against his former team, the Steelers, twice a year. He proved he could win a Super Bowl without them, and now, he can secure his comeback to the league by beating them this season.
He will definitely open up the running game. Peyton Hillis was easily figured out by year's end in 2010, but Burress will prevent opposing defenses from stacking the box.
Plain and simply, if he's not asking for a lucrative contract, Burress is definitely worth taking a chance on. He's a big target, and although he never had the most reliable hands, you can bet "Plax" is starving to win.
Browns fans love a player with the passion and desire to bring home a "W," and Burress will be aiming to impress regardless of where he plays. In fact, the Philadelphia Eagles have discussed adding him as the third option on their receiving corps.
Tom Heckert and Mike Holmgren have the franchise moving in the right direction at the moment, and maybe Burress will suddenly become part of the team's off-season plans. Of course, the lockout is in effect at the moment, but it doesn't hurt to plan ahead.
The Browns will surprise a lot of people in 2011, but they can make a big splash with the signing of Burress. In Cleveland's case, as seen above, there's more risk than reward to having him around.
Don't be surprised if "Plax" is running down the sidelines wearing brown and orange in 2011.
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