Browns Make Goofy Pitch to Sign LeBron James

To be clear about Ohio's favorite son LeBron James: Had he long ago put his mind to one of many, many tasks or goals, we're not going to be the ones who say he couldn't have made it.

Having said that: LeBron quit football for a reason.

And anybody who sees it any other say - including Rodney McLeod Jr., a safety for the Cleveland Browns - is goofing around.

McLeod recently made a recruiting pitch to NBA superstar LeBron about returning to the town where he once starred with the Cavs.

Browns Make Goofy Pitch to Sign LeBron James

And as long as McLeod is trying to be funny? Sure. Let's play along.

“We could use somebody to complement [David] Njoku over there,'' he said. "The only problem is, I’m not sure if LeBron is actually ready to take on a guy like a Myles Garrett just yet, put his hand in the dirt. So, we’re going to have to save LeBron for third downs, red zone, passing situations. So, there might be some tells on offense, but it’ll be worth it.”

No. It would not be worth it.

James was a stellar football player in high school as well. ... and surely could've played football at, say, Ohio State. And had he stuck with it, and given up hoops, and added substantial bulk to what is now a 6-9 and 250-pound frame?

Maybe. But now? This year he will turn 40 years old. ...and the first time he goes over the middle to make a catch and is hit by other men who are his physical matches in bulk and strength and speed (which was never quite the case in high school)?

We bet it would be the last time he would ever go over the middle. We bet it would be the last time he ever even wore a helmet.

So yes. Feed his fantasy and have your fun. But Deshaun Watson this year will be throwing to actual pass-catchers. And LeBron will be watching from the safety of his sofa.