The Denver Broncos have reached an agreement to trade wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, a former first-round pick, to the Cleveland Browns, according to two sources familiar with the deal who spoke to The Associated Press on Saturday.
The sources, who requested anonymity as the trade had not been formally announced by either team, revealed that the Broncos will receive fifth- and sixth-round picks in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft once the trade is finalized next week.
For the Browns, acquiring Jeudy provides a valuable complement to their No. 1 receiver, Amari Cooper, and adds another significant target and deep threat for quarterback Deshaun Watson.
The trade will also provide financial relief for the Broncos, who will save $13 million in both cash and salary cap space by parting ways with Jeudy. Additionally, Denver will obtain the first pick of the fifth round in the draft, bolstering their total draft selections to eight in April.
This move comes amidst the Broncos’ recent efforts to clear cap space, including the decision to release quarterback Russell Wilson and part ways with All-Pro safety Justin Simmons and wide receiver Tim Patrick.
Selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2020 draft, Jeudy’s time with the Broncos was marked by unmet expectations, partly due to instability at the quarterback position. Despite flashes of talent, particularly in the 2022 season, Jeudy’s production waned, culminating in just two touchdown receptions in the previous season.
Entering the final year of his contract after the Broncos exercised their fifth-year option on him, Jeudy’s departure signals the end of his tenure in Denver.
The Browns had previously pursued Jeudy last year, but were unable to finalize a deal. Now, they have secured a proven wideout in Jeudy, whose speed and skill set align well with Watson’s penchant for deep throws.
In Cleveland, Jeudy joins a receiving corps that includes Elijah Moore and Marquise Goodwin. Despite challenges last season, including injuries to Goodwin, the Browns aim to capitalize on Jeudy’s talents to bolster their offense and build upon their playoff run.
Meanwhile, the Broncos continue their rebuilding efforts under coach Sean Payton, looking to reverse a string of losing seasons and end an eight-year playoff drought. However, the departure of key players like Wilson, Jeudy, and Simmons underscores the challenges they face in the upcoming season.
