Two Trade Targets Could Address Browns’ Roster Needs

The Cleveland Browns could pursue help at tight end and along the defensive line as they try to build on an improved stretch of play and finish the 2026 season strongly. The two suggested targets are Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert and Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne.

Goedert, 31, has 26 receptions for 258 yards and two touchdowns this season, averaging 9.9 yards per catch. He could provide a second receiving option alongside Harold Fannin Jr., while bringing experience and some blocking ability. His projected Browns cap hit starting in Week 10 and continuing until season’s close would be $695,000, and his contract is expiring.

Payne could add depth to a defensive front that has struggled to get production from Jared Verse. The 26-year-old Verse has recorded 18 tackles, four tackles for loss, no sacks and six quarterback hits this season. Payne, in his ninth NFL season, has 14 tackles, two tackles for loss, five quarterback hits and one sack in 2026.

Across his career, Payne has totaled 446 tackles, 67 tackles for loss, 38 sacks and 86 quarterback hits. Washington is well below .500 and appears unlikely to reach the playoffs, making a trade possible if the Browns offer suitable draft picks. Both moves remain proposed options for Cleveland as it considers how to bolster its roster.