It’s hard not to see this as a sign that Cleveland is changing its priorities after expecting to be a playoff contender. Teams with playoff aspirations typically don’t offer draft compensation to a veteran like Cooper midway through the year. Even though the five-time Pro Bowler’s performance is well below his best, his departure makes the Browns even worse.

As an asset play, trading Cooper makes sense. He’s headed to free agency after the season and a 2025 third-round pick is a solid return under the circumstances.

But it’s never a great look when a franchise goes from competing to rebuilding after six weeks. James certainly isn’t the only Northeast Ohio native upset.