Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
After learning wideout Josh Gordon could potentially miss all of 2014 due to violating the league’s substance abuse policy, the Cleveland Browns wasted no time in signing another WR in former Cowboy, Miles Austin. Bleacher Report columnist Matt Fitzgerald wrote on the Browns new acquisition shortly after the news leaked on Twitter. Fitzgerald writes:
"“A deep 2014 NFL draft at the wide receiver position left some veterans out in the cold, including two-time Pro Bowler Miles Austin. On Thursday, the Cleveland Browns ended Austin’s wait to get another shot at proving himself, signing him to an undisclosed deal.”"
Cleveland missed the opportunity to grab one of the many talented wideouts in this years draft. However, the team did draft Texas A&M quarterback, Johnny Manziel, who is already being deemed a savior in Cleveland. If Manziel plans on saving anything in Cleveland, it will start with getting him some help on offense.
Austin’s former team, the Dallas Cowboys, have added Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams, and traded up in this years draft to grab Devin Street. After signing quarterback Tony Romo to a nine figure deal, it appears the Cowboys plans are to get better and move forward without the talents of Austin.
Austin turns 30 in June, but his veteran presence will be much appreciated by Cleveland. Some argue that Austin’s best playing days are behind him. After suffering numerous injuries in Dallas, it’s hard to argue against that notion. Overall, if healthy, Austin can become a reliable, sure-handed target in 2014.