Adam Schefter reported that the Browns were involved in the talks and had also offered three first round picks like what the Rams got from the Redskins. That report seemed confusing considering that the Browns had both a higher first round pick and a second first round pick in 2012. Common sense would tell you that the Browns’ were in a position to make a more attractive offer, and yet in the face of that offer, the Rams apparently chose the Redskins.
According to the Plain Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot, that report might be confusing because it might not be 100% accurate.
Others have indicated the Browns didn’t offer three first-rounders, including NFL Network’s Mike Lombardi, who told the Washington Post on Saturday that Browns sources told him they weren’t willing to invest that much.
Amidst rumors of favoritism between Jeff Fisher of the Rams and Mike Shannahan of the Redskins, this would make more sense. It is just too hard to believe that the Browns offered a seemingly superior package and the Rams chose to trade with the Redskins anyway. It seems much more likely that the Browns just weren’t willing to pony up quite as much as the ‘Skins.
We’ll probably never know for sure, but after Tuesday when trades can be announced it won’t matter. The chapter will officially be closed.
[Related: With RG3 Gone, Browns fans prefer Colt McCoy and Justin Blackmon]
