But not Manziel as target. Manziel will not be on the Browns in 2016 that is without doubt. But he is still a very recent first round pick. Browns will not get any value from Manziel and that is a black eye to the organization.
Jerry can step in and be Cleveland's hero. Trade a package of players and a pick to Cleveland, a package of starters: WR Terrance Williams, CB Brandon Carr, SS JJ Wilcox, RT Doug Free and a 2017 third (which can turn into a 2nd should Manziel start at least 1 game in 2016) for QB Johnny Manziel, WR Josh Gordon (may not play another down in NFL) and LT Joe Thomas. Thomas is the true target.
Thomas is more than worth a 3rd, and would absolutely shore up the Cowboys' best unit sending it to uber-elite status. Cleveland does this to add 4 starters, save face and add an additional high pick. Win-win for both teams. This move further avoids the temptation of taking Tunsil with the 4th pick. Tunsil, Jack and Bosa appear to be the only true can't miss prospects at the top of the draft.
Free Agency and the top half of the draft needs to focus on defense. Offense puts butts in seats, defense wins championships. This is no ad hominem but was borne out by both SB participants this season. Denver and Carolina were not only top 10 defenses but lead the league in sacks (Denver) and takeaways (Carolina). And reinforced by the last 10 years with at least ONE of the SB participants (usually the winner) leading the league in Defense (Denver, Carolina, Seattle, New England, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, etc.). Backup QB should be a player already familiar with Garrett's system or at least indoctrinated in the Norv Turner offense. This allows familiarity, communication (same terminology) and past success to speed up the reads and comfort levels so as to hedge any deficiencies that might occur in game planning or play calling should back up be called to play for whatever reason.
Manziel is released outright or placed on NFI (non-football injury list) for 2016 to avoid 3rd rounder becoming a 2nd rounder in 2017.
