The Cleveland Browns are doing better than many people expected, and that may affect their plans before the trade deadline. They are currently at the top of the AFC North with a 4-2 record, but they could be looking for reinforcements.
However, if they begin hunting for more players on the trade market, they need to be careful. Speaking on 92.3 The Fan, Ken Carman urged the Browns not to race after Khalil Mack of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Because of his age and how much he could cost, Mack might not be the right fit for these Browns as they remake themselves.
“Khalil Mack’s 35 years old. Khalil Mack is like the rest of this year, and then we don’t know. We don’t know what his future holds. You can trade for Khalil Mack, or I can keep the second- and third-rounder, and I could still be where I was before. I got 11 different guys on this defense that have sacked so far this year. None of them are named Jared Verse. The defense has done very well. Credit to Mike Rutenberg where it’s deserved. They’ve done a good job. I’m not at the point right now at 4-2 where I’m going after guys who might be one-year, end-of-their-career, chase-Super-Bowl rentals,” Carman said.
“Khalil Mack’s 35 years old. Khalil Mack is like the rest of this year, and then we don’t know. We don’t know what his future holds.”
➡️ @KenCarman w/ @SportsBoyTony pushes back on the #Browns giving up valuable draft capital for Khalil Mack. https://t.co/lMFabOswJO pic.twitter.com/BXGhL0jEEV
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) October 21, 2026
The Chargers are currently still winless after six games, so there is no doubt that they will probably be open to any kind of trade. However, just because they would likely be willing to part with Mack doesn’t mean the Browns should leap at the chance.
He brings a ton of talent to the team; there is no doubt about that. But Mack is now 35 years old and coming closer to the end of his career. Does an older defensive star really fit with what the Browns are trying to do right now? Plus, it’s not like Cleveland has a ton of problems on defense.
Yes, the defensive unit needs to get stronger and remain that way, but they have shown tons of talent and promise so far this season. Mack may not be right for them.
The Browns are doing better than expected, which is exciting for fans. However, they shouldn’t make rash decisions as a way to keep their good thing going.
They need to be measured and careful, especially since they are playing well.
NEXT: The Clock Is Ticking On A Browns Quarterback Decision
