The Browns have traded for wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr in a move that has shocked the NFL world.
The Giants will receive the No. 17 overall pick, a third-round pick and safety Jabrill Peppers in return for the superstar player. NFL Media's Mike Garafolo first reported the news.
Speaking at the NFL Combine last week, general manager John Dorsey alluded to wanting an upgrade in talent, saying "I don’t think we’re a team yet to go for it." He continued: "We have a young, talented team. Let’s build a foundation here. Let’s build a team of substance".
Dorsey took over as general manager from Sashi Brown in December 2017. Since then he has rejuvenated the team, bringing it from an infamous 0-16 side to genuine contenders in just over 12 months.
This latest move certainly sets up an even brighter future in Ohio. Besides Beckham, Dorsey has drafted franchise quarterback Baker Mayfield, overhauled the Browns' coaching staff and traded for top tier talents like pass rusher Olivier Vernon and wide receiver Jarvis Landry.
Beckham just signed a five-year, record contract worth up to $95 million in August but is expected to want more from Cleveland. The 26-years-old leaves $16 million in dead money behind on the Giants 2019 salary cap, but the deal also creates $5 million in cap space.
Beckham totaled 1,052 yards with six touchdowns on 77 receptions in 12 games last season -- after a broken leg cut his 2017 season to just four games. He was named to three straight Pro Bowls after entering the league in 2014 as the 12th overall pick.
And if Mayfield’s rookie season was any indication of what lies ahead, Beckham's game could be on a steep upward curve.
COVER PHOTO: USA Today
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