Browns WR Donovan Peoples-Jones Headed To Detroit

The 2020 6th round pick has registered just eight receptions for 97 yards after a breakout year in 2022

The Cleveland Browns have made their first deal of the NFL trade deadline, and despite being heavily rumored to have interest in adding a wide receiver, their first move actually involves sending one away.

The organization confirmed multiple reports that it is are sending 2020 sixth-round pick, Donovan Peoples-Jones to the Detroit Lions in exchange for a 2025 sixth rounder.

🚨 Trade Alert 🚨 pic.twitter.com/7HbQ9FepSa

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 31, 2023

Peoples-Jones was a promising young player for the Browns over the last three-plus seasons, particularly coming in as a late round draft pick. The Michigan product made steady improvement every year, culminating in a 61-reception, 839-yard, three-touchdown season in 2022.

With the team building an offense around star quarterback Deshaun Watson this offseason, People-Jones was expected to continue that upwards trajectory this season. Unfortunately, the numbers just haven't materialized as he's caught just eight passes for 97 yards to this point. Now, the Michigan product and Detroit native will see if he can reclaim his form with his hometown team.

There's context to that of course, as Watson has been in and out of the starting lineup due to a rotator cuff injury. In his absence, veteran P.J. Walker has filled in admirably, and went 2-1 in three games under center, but his limitations have the offense firmly ranked in the bottom five in terms of expected points added per play.

It's unclear if the Browns plan to make any other moves before the clock strikes 4 p.m. and the deadline closes. In recent weeks, reports have linked Cleveland to wide receivers, running backs, offensive lineman and even quarterback trade possibilities.