Starting to think this makes the most sense for a few different reasons…
1). Financially: Moore is signed on a rookie deal for two more years, which is key.. Cooper is signed for two more years and you have an upcoming DPJ extension.. You are also having to be fiscally responsible in building the team out with current needs..
Trading for Cooks/Hopkins/or any higher priced veteran, essentially means Cooper or DPJ is pushed out next year and you also have to account for that cap room this year.. Same goes for Jeudy, who is due an extension next year.. Browns can achieve an WR upgrade without doing either which is where Moore or a rookie WR comes in..
If the Browns can get Hardman, Chark, Campbell on a relatively affordable deal (say under $5M AAV) then that could be another option but doesn’t seem readily available..
Moore’s contract allows them to thread the needle the next two years with Cooper and DPJ and go from there..
2). Age: Moore will be 23 with two years of experience — he’s young enough to be around for awhile but also has the experience to likely make an impact from day one which isn’t always guaranteed with a rookie.. This is a make or break year and counting on a rookie to produce is a bit risky.. On the other end, you’re also paying guys who are 30+ high end money and likely paying a high mid-round pick to acquire them..
With Rodgers on the horizon and potential GB vets coming with him, Moore may be a guy they ultimately look to move off of.. When you consider talent, contract and readiness to produce, think Moore provides an intersection for the Browns that is really appealing..