Browns Aim to Give Shedeur Sanders a Top Receiving Threat

Cleveland looks to add veteran free agent Jauan Jennings to boost their passing attack.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:57pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cleveland Browns have made major moves to overhaul their offensive line this offseason, but they still need to address their receiving corps to support second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders. With Jerry Jeudy struggling as the top option last season, the Browns are expected to explore adding a more established receiver in free agency or the draft, with Jauan Jennings emerging as a top target.

Why it matters

The Browns' passing game struggled mightily in 2025, finishing last in the NFL in receiving grade. Improving the supporting cast around Sanders is crucial for the young QB to take a leap in his second season and solidify his hold on the starting job.

The details

After trading for Tytus Howard and signing Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson to shore up the offensive line, the Browns' next priority is adding a reliable receiving threat for Sanders. Jennings, a free agent who had nearly 1,000 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns two seasons ago, would provide an established possession receiver to complement the inconsistent Jerry Jeudy.

  • The Browns revamped their offensive line during the first phase of free agency.
  • Jauan Jennings is currently a free agent.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

The Browns' second-year quarterback who started the final seven games of the 2025 season.

Jerry Jeudy

The Browns' top receiver in 2025 who struggled with drops and inconsistent play.

Jauan Jennings

A free agent wide receiver who had nearly 1,000 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns two seasons ago, emerging as a potential target for the Browns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Browns' attention during the first phase of free agency was understandably centered on the offensive line. Now, the focus should turn to the receiver room.”

— Mason Cameron, Pro Football Focus analyst

“Of the Browns' current receivers, only Jerry Jeudy caught more than 25 passes and generated more than 1.0 yards per route run last season. Jennings would amplify the group as an efficient possession receiver, having generated more yards per route run (1.35) than any receiver on the roster and having hauled in more contested catches (19) than the entire receiving corps combined (18) last season.”

— Mason Cameron, Pro Football Focus analyst

What’s next

The Browns will likely explore adding a top receiving threat, either in free agency with Jauan Jennings or with one of their two first-round draft picks, to provide Shedeur Sanders with a reliable target and help the passing game take a step forward in 2026.

The takeaway

After investing heavily in their offensive line, the Browns now need to turn their attention to upgrading their receiving corps to fully support the development of young quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Signing a veteran like Jauan Jennings could provide the steady, contested-catch threat they've been lacking.