With Deshaun Watson being suspended for 11 games of the NFL season, the Browns are in an interesting situation. They could keep Jacoby Brissett as their starter until Watson comes back, but some fans want Jimmy Garoppolo.
Especially former Browns’ GM Michael Lombardi thinks the Browns should trade for Garoppolo. He says that a move like that can save their season.
“I know this is a little bit of a disruption, but you can go get Garoppolo and save your season.”
The Browns obviously feel content with Jacoby Brissett, though.
"They are NOT going to trade for Jimmy Garoppolo."@jjones9 breaks down what's next for the Browns at QB after Deshaun Watson was handed an 11-game suspension. pic.twitter.com/mAdgI3f1Ac
— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) August 18, 2022
But, Lombardi thinks not getting Garoppolo would be a huge mistake with how similar the Browns and 49ers offense is.
“The offense being run in Cleveland is the same terminology as the offense in San Francisco. Garoppolo could walk into Cleveland tomorrow, and within about a week he would be able to execute their offense.”
The last point Lombardi had was definitely the best. He made it a point to say that Watson won’t come back and magically lead the Browns to the top.
“Look, this notion that Deshaun is just going to come back in Week 12 and all of the sudden magically score, throw four touchdown passes and dominate the NFL, that’s unrealistic. That’s not even remotely accurate.”
The Browns have a lot of decisions to make, but they continue to insist that they are comfortable with Brissett.
“I think back to when we were acquiring Jacoby, the phone calls that I made to people he’s played for, people that he’s played with, it was very, very consistent in that you’re getting a pro’s pro. Somebody who’s going to lead from out in front, works very hard at his craft and is just an outstanding teammate.”
The Browns have some time to make a final decision, but the obvious answer here is to go out and get Jimmy Garoppolo until Watson comes back.