This Browns-Patriots Trade Involving Stephon Gilmore and Greedy Williams Could Actually Work

The departure of Tom Brady as well as many key figures on defense have forced the New England Patriots to seriously consider rebuilding as they try to find their next franchise quarterback.

One move that could help accelerate the New England rebuild is trading 2019 Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore in exchange for some serious draft capital. The Cleveland Browns, in need of another superstar defensive player, should be all over an elite corner like Gilmore.

The Browns have one potential superstar on their hands at cornerback in Denzel Ward, but they could stand to improve their secondary. Second-year cornerback Greedy Williams has Pro Bowl potential, but on his best day he isn't on Gilmore's level. Having said that, his man coverage skills could pique Bill Belichick's interest.

Greedy should be on his way to New England if Andrew Berry wants to start pursuing a trade. Cleveland will likely need to part with a second-round pick in either this year or the next in addition to a late-round pick to pull off this trade. With more cap space than any team in football, Cleveland is more than able to absorb the $18.6 million cap hit that Gilmore comes with for 2020 (and $19.6 million in 2021).

Cleveland tried to swing for the fences last offseason, but some of their big trades completely whiffed. Gilmore, however, represents an elite defensive player at a position of need that could help the Browns make it back to the playoffs.