Browns Trading for Ja’Marr Chase? Silly Proposal Sparks Speculation

In the world of NFL trade speculation, few of this summer's media proposals have generated as much buzz as the idea of the Cleveland Browns acquiring star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase from the Cincinnati Bengals .

The suggestion, which has been making the rounds recently, would see the Browns pull off a blockbuster deal to land one of the league’s most dynamic pass catchers. But how realistic is this scenario?

According to a proposal highlighted by Bleacher Report, the trade would involve the Browns sending wide receiver Amari Cooper , a 2025 first-round pick, and a 2025 fourth-round pick to the Bengals in exchange for Chase.

On the surface and in a vacuum, it’s an enticing offer for Cleveland. Chase, at just 24 years old, is already recognized as one of the NFL's top wideouts, coming off a 2023 season where he hauled in 100 receptions for 1,216 yards and seven touchdowns.

But Browns fans and Bengals fans alike know exactly how silly this is.

The Bengals, who drafted Chase with the fifth overall pick in 2021, are unlikely to part with their young star, and wildly unlikely to coordinate this with a division rival.

Meanwhile, at the risk of taking this at all seriously: While Cooper would be a solid addition for Cincinnati, the trade package may not be enough to pry Chase away. The Bengals would likely demand more significant draft capital, possibly including an additional second-round pick, to even consider such a deal.

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The driving force behind this speculation seems to be the uncertainty surrounding Chase's contract situation. With two years remaining on his current deal, there's been talk of a potential holdout, which could prompt the Bengals to explore their options. However, trading Chase within the AFC North, where he would face Cincinnati twice a year, seems highly improbable.

While this trade is more fantasy than reality, it underscores the Browns’ desire to make a splash and strengthen their roster. The idea of pairing Chase with quarterback Deshaun Watson is undoubtedly tantalizing for Cleveland fans. Still, the likelihood of the Bengals entertaining such a proposal is slim to none.