Ever since the Browns lost star RB Nick Chubb to a season-ending knee injury in Week 2, they have been linked to one of the league’s top running backs, and general manager Andrew Berry never said the team wasn’t interested in adding him.
According to reports, Berry told reporters that he “can’t say if he’d pursue Colts RB Jonathan Taylor.” It’s certainly not much to go off, but it gives those in favor of the move hope that it could still happen.
Even if Cleveland does become interested, there have been some signs that Taylor’s relationship with Indianapolis is getting better. The 24-year-old was listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s practice and is expected to speak to the media sometime Thursday.
If the relationship remains rocky, however, the Browns should go all in on Taylor, who led the NFL in rushing yards (1,811) and rushing touchdowns (18) in 2021, as they had Super Bowl aspirations entering the year.
It will likely take high compensation to acquire the former second-round pick, but Berry has had a couple of aggressive offseasons, so it wouldn’t be a total surprise if this was his next big move.
For now though, it seems Cleveland will continue leaning on running backs Jerome Ford, Pierre Strong and Kareem Hunt.
“We’re pleased with the running back room,” Berry said.
The three running backs have combined for 288 rushing yards and two touchdowns this season. Those numbers don’t really jump off the page.
The Browns are on their bye in Week 5, so they have some time to think about what they want to do. If Taylor is available, Cleveland must consider it.
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