NFL Rumors: Trading Colt McCoy Would Be a Huge Mistake for Cleveland Browns

Cleveland coach Pat Shurmur didn't exactly put the Colt McCoy trade rumors to rest, but the Browns are foolish if they're seriously looking to dump their young quarterback.

After selecting Brandon Weeden with the 22nd overall pick, Shurmur told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that no decisions on McCoy's future have been made.

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"We've drafted a quarterback to come in and compete with [McCoy]—at this point—and that's where it's at," he said. Asked if McCoy will still be with the team when organized team activities begin May 22, Shurmur said, "let's not take it all the way out to May 22."

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While it's smart for the Browns to consider all their options, keeping McCoy on the roster is a no-brainer.

He wasn't overly impressive last year, throwing for just 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also threw 11 interceptions and fumbled the ball five times while leading the Browns to a 4-12 record.

Although the numbers aren't great, it's too early to completely give up on the 25-year-old McCoy. He had no semblance of a running game last year, and it's tough to succeed when your two best receivers are Greg Little and Josh Cribbs.

Also, Weeden is far from a proven product. While he's tried to spin his age into a positive, no quarterback is totally ready for the transition from college to the pros. His 28 years of age may suggest that he's more mature than most rookies, but it certainly doesn't guarantee him immediate success.

If the Browns get rid of McCoy, and Weeden struggles or gets hurt, then the Browns' next option would be Seneca Wallace. Is that a reality you really want to face if you're Cleveland?

The smart move for the Browns is to have both quarterbacks compete, then keep one on as a backup. McCoy is making just $490,000 in 2012, so there's no need to ditch him at this point. 

If Cleveland decides Weeden is their quarterback of the future, that's fine. But it would be a horrible mistake to get rid of McCoy before Weeden has even taken an NFL snap.