Cleveland Browns sign WR Kole Wilson

The Cleveland Browns' signing of Kole Wilson earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI), a rational mid-market investment that reflects realistic expectations for a depth receiver on a modest deal. At $1.035M AAV over three years ($3.105M total), this is a replacement-level commitment — the kind of low-risk, low-ceiling contract you make when you need roster depth without sacrificing cap flexibility or draft capital. Wilson's value proposition is straightforward: he's affordable enough that the Browns can walk away without consequence, yet functional enough to compete for snaps in a receiving room that clearly needs reinforcement. The structure suggests the team isn't betting heavily on Wilson as a long-term cornerstone piece, but rather acquiring a solid-depth option who can contribute on special teams and provide insurance against injury without tying up meaningful resources. For a Browns team sitting at 5-12 and outside the playoff picture, avoiding inflated commitments to marginal talent is sound management — this deal reflects restraint rather than confidence, which is exactly the posture a struggling franchise should adopt during the offseason. The CVI grade recognizes that while this isn't a shrewd steal, it's also not a millstone; it's simply prudent roster maintenance at a price that won't compound future regrets.