Kareem Hunt a trade candidate after D’Ernest Johnson is tendered

The Cleveland Browns are in the middle of trade rumors surrounding Deshaun Watson but that isn’t the only possible movement with the team.

So far, based on news and reports, the following has been the start to their offseason:

• David Njoku was given the franchise tag
• Andy Janovich will not return for next year
• Three were tendered making them exclusive rights free agents
• Reportedly, Austin Hooper will stick around despite Njoku’s tag
• Jadeveon Clowney is unlikely to return based on a report this week.
• D’Ernest Johnson was given a restricted free agent tender.

We noted in the Johnson piece that the level of tender the Browns gave Johnson could set him up to be traded to another team interested in his services.

The other side to the trade possibility is that Kareem Hunt is considered expendable based on the return of Johnson. With Nick Chubb leading the way, Johnson would provide a solid backup especially if the team can get him on a reasonable multi-year deal.

Cleveland also drafted Demetric Felton last year and he would provide depth and a pass-catching threat out of the backfield and as a receiver, as Hunt often is.

Hunt has been a very good player for the Browns since arrival but only has one year left on his contract. Hunt’s $6 million yearly average is the 13th highest among running backs with his teammate Chubb sixth in the league.

At that price, and set to become a free agent, Cleveland may benefit in the big picture from moving the Ohio native. Whether it is for draft considerations, to help fill needs at wide receiver or on the defensive line, or as a part of a trade for a player to upgrade one of those areas of weakness, Hunt’s departure only makes sense if it helps build up the team overall.

If the Browns really are interested in trading for Watson, Hunt could be a part of that deal while helping Andrew Berry and company to keep some draft capital to upgrade the roster.

Cleveland does not need to trade Kareem Hunt but could choose to deal from a place of significant depth, if Johnson returns, in order to shore up the roster in another area.