It has been talked about ad nauseam – the Cleveland Browns need to add a pass-catching playmaker. 

And during the 2024 Reese's Senior Bowl, Browns general manager Andrew Berry had an opportunity to see some skilled wide receivers up close. 

To add, Browns franchise quarterback Deshaun Watson made a public plea to Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins not too long ago. But when asked whether wide receiver was a position of need, Berry gave a confusing answer. 

“I would not say that,” Berry said to The Athletic when asked if adding pass catchers was a top priority.

“I mean, we’re still in the assessment mode. We feel pretty good about our group of pass catchers. I don’t know many teams across the NFL that have two Pro Bowl-caliber pass catchers (Amari Cooper and David Njoku) and a good complementary crew. We’re always looking to add playmakers. … But I think it would be aggressive (to call that the) top priority.”

Throughout the 2023 season, the Browns found success by playing a consistent brand of football. The defense carried Cleveland for stretches. And the offense often made enough plays to keep games interesting. 

Then Joe Flacco happened. He created a synergy with tight end David Njoku that opened a wrinkle in Cleveland's passing game that hadn't been there under Watson. 

It is natural to believe that Watson needs more weapons. But Berry isn't rushing into any decisions. The Browns will have options as long as the team gets its cap numbers in order. That is more than many other teams. 

It sounds like Cleveland won't be all in on a pass catcher. Berry doesn't appear to believe that the team needs to be. But it will all come down to health and Watson in 2024. Flacco made magic out of Njoku and company. If Watson can't do the same, this Browns team may have already hit its ceiling. 

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