Should the Cleveland Browns Trade for Dwayne Bowe?
By Erik Lambert
Jan 4, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe (82) makes a catch while being defended by Indianapolis Colts defensive back Josh Gordy (27), but was unable to keep in bounds during the fourth quarter of the 2013 AFC wild card playoff football game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Dwayne Bowe is fast wearing out his welcome in Kansas City. Could the Cleveland Browns give enigmatic receiver a fresh start?
Andy Reid and Kansas City Chiefs uphold suspending Bowe for opener
Substance abuse is a regular problem teams have to deal with in the NFL and they aren’t afraid to hand down stiff penalties if necessary. Head coach Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs did not complain as the NFL suspended top receiver Dwayne Bowe for the regular season opener against Tennessee. This is actually a big deal considering the Chiefs aren’t exactly considered heavy in talent at the receiver position. Still, they have sent a message that it won’t be tolerated regardless of who you are. The suspension comes as a result of Bowe’s arrest last November for pot possession.
Josh Gordon issues make Browns eager and wary of Bowe
This latest development is another in a series of headaches regarding Bowe. Most of them have to do with his inconsistent play on the field, which has led to speculation that Kansas City may start entertaining trade options. A recent rumor hinted that the Cleveland Browns are definitely a possibility. They are in need of help at the position with their own star Josh Gordon set to endure a long suspension of his own for repeated violations of NFL policy. A talent like Bowe would be of great help to their cause. At the same time, his history would certainly make them leery. After all, they have enough to deal with in regards to Gordon. They don’t need another pass target with drug problems.
It really is a devilish dilemma. Cleveland knows their passing offense won’t be the same without Gordon and that big target like Dwayne Bowe could seriously help. Yet his latest infraction makes it a risk they may not be willing to take.