Browns Trade Trent Richardson to Colts; How Are the Packers Affected?

In one of the most stunning trades in memory, the Cleveland Browns have reportedly traded their best offensive playmaker, running back Trent Richardson, to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for the Colts' first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.

Wait, what?

Yes, that's right, one of the most promising young running backs in football, who was the third overall pick in the 2012 Draft, was just traded after only 17 games in a Browns uniform. Richardson put up 950 rushing yards, 367 receiving yards, and 12 total touchdowns in 15 games last season, but had only played in about 63% of the team's snaps through two games in 2013.

The Browns will play the Packers at Lambeau Field on October 20th this season, and they will do so without Richardson's services.

One interesting thought is whether or not the Packers would have made this trade if Browns GM Michael Lombardi called Ted Thompson to offer him the same deal. In Richardson, the Packers would have received one of the best young backs in the league, who has struggled without a solid offensive line to block for him or a passing attack to take pressure off him. The return would be a first-round pick, which for the Packers would likely be a late pick, in the late 20s (or hopefully the 32nd pick). Would you take that deal if it were offered to you right now?

Let us know what you think in the comments.

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