FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 10: Jamie Collins #91 of the New England Patriots looks on from the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 10, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Report: Browns acquire Pro Bowl linebacker from Patriots

Marcus Hartman, Staff Writer

The Browns are building for the future despite what looks already like a lost season.

ESPN reported Monday that Cleveland has acquired Jamie Collins, a Pro Bowl linebacker, from the New England Patriots for a third-round pick in next spring’s draft.

Blockbuster deal: Patriots traded LB Jamie Collins to Cleveland for a compensatory third-round pick, sources tell ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 31, 2016

Collins has 24 tackles but no sacks this season as the Patriots have started 7-1.

Jamie Collins in last year of contract. Becomes prime candidate for Cleveland's franchise tag - if Browns don't sign him to big deal first.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 31, 2016

The Browns are 0-8 but stocked with draft picks for the future, one of which they used to acquire a proven player to help first-year coach Hue Jackson’s rebuild.