Washington Redskins: Blocked Terrelle Pryor trade best for team, player

Washington Redskins wide receiver Terrelle Pryor was almost a Cleveland Browns receiver again.

The Washington Redskins signed wide receiver Terrelle Pryor as a free agent this offseason. However, he’s largely been disappointing this season. And as it turns out, he was also the target of a trade deal presented by the Cleveland Browns — the team he last played for prior to signing in D.C.

Washington’s front office rejected that deal, keeping the 1,000-yard receiver. Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot reported the following details of that deal:

"If the Browns had been able to strike the deal, they would’ve gotten Pryor for the bargain basement price of $1.5 million for the second half of the season. He signed a one-year deal with the Redskins worth $6 million guaranteed, including a $3 million signing bonus and a $3 million base."

As stated, the 2017 season has been a disappointment both for player and team. Pryor has only caught 20 balls for 240 yards, which is far from what was expected. He was supposed to be the No. 1 target for Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins, but that soon fizzled.

For whatever reason, the two have not been able to connect on the field. As a result, running back Chris Thompson leads in receptions and rushing yards. To be sent back to the Browns in the middle of a lackluster performance would have been embarrassing and probably a career killer.

The Redskins probably could have made the deal, but with so many injuries they’re probably gambling on the fact they might need him. Redskins tight end Jordan Reed, along with wide receiver Jamison Crowder, is dealing with hamstring issues. Wide receiver Brian Quick is recovering from a concussion.

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Pryor still has great opportunity to contribute to the Redskins offense, but he has to take advantage of ever ball thrown to him. That’s contingent on where he sits in head coach Jay Gruden’s plan. Right now, that appears to be a small role. However, trading him back to Cleveland wouldn’t solve any problems for either the team or player.