BECKHAM JR. JOINS THE BROWNS!
The Cleveland Browns acquired wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from the New York Giants for safety Jabrill Peppers, a first-round draft pick in 2019 and a third-round draft pick in 2019.
What does it give the Cleveland Browns
This blockbuster deal seemingly came from nowhere, but it should not come as a surprise that the Browns were the team that were able to land Beckham Jr. (one of the most dynamic receivers in the game). Cleveland has been building up assets for years and now appear to have everything in place to become a perennial contender. With Baker Mayfield in place as the franchise quarterback, Jarvis Landry (Beckham Jr.'s former LSU running mate) lined up on the opposite side of the field and Myles Garrett leading the way for a formidable defense, Cleveland (yes, Cleveland) is suddenly scary good.
What does it give the New York Giants
Giants fans are not happy today but this trade had to be made. It had become obvious that Beckham Jr. and New York's management team (and coaching staff) had grown apart. There were issues that needed to be resolved. It was probably an irreconcilable situation. Peppers is actually a quality addition to the Giants' secondary. A playmaker, he will replace the departed Landon Collins at safety (and Peppers can also return kicks and punts). Adding the 17th pick in the draft should also help the Giants, who also own the No. 6 overall selection this year. The third rounder cannot hurt, either.
Fantasy impact
This trade helps Beckham Jr.'s fantasy stock tremendously, but it may actually help Mayfield and Landry even more. Peppers has value in IDP fantasy leagues, especially if he returns kicks and/or punts for the Giants (like he did for the Browns). Clearly, the biggest loser in terms of fantasy value after this trade belongs to veteran New York signal-caller Eli Manning. Second-year running back Saquon Barkley, meanwhile, now becomes the only focal point on offense for the Giants. His value may have actually skyrocketed after this deal.
