Owner Jimmy Haslam openly admitted the trade for Deshaun Watson, which involved significant draft capital and a fully guaranteed contract, was a mistake the organization needs to overcome.
Watson is expected to miss a substantial part, if not all, of the 2025 season after re-tearing his Achilles tendon.
The Browns acquired Kenny Pickett via trade, but he joins Watson as the only QBs currently rostered, signaling a need for further additions.
Holding the No. 2 overall pick, the Browns might select a non-QB like edge rusher Abdul Carter or WR Travis Hunter, rather than "forcing" a QB pick.
Why this matters: The Browns are at a crossroads. Their draft decisions, particularly regarding the QB position, will shape their competitiveness in 2025 and their long-term strategy for finding a franchise leader.
Potential Day 2 QB targets include Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss), Jalen Milroe (Alabama), and Tyler Shough (Louisville). Speculation includes trading back into Round 1 for Dart.
Veteran QB Joe Flacco, who led the team to the playoffs in 2023, remains "in the conversation" as a potential option.
Background: The Watson Fallout
The Browns' current QB predicament stems directly from the high-profile trade for Deshaun Watson three years ago. The move cost three first-round picks and came with a $230 million fully guaranteed contract. However, due to suspension and significant injuries (shoulder in 2023, Achilles in 2024), Watson has played only 19 games over three seasons. With Watson likely sidelined for most of 2025, Cleveland is forced back to the drawing board.
Draft Strategy Crossroads
Armed with the No. 2 overall pick, the Browns face a critical decision. While top QB prospects like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are available, reports suggest the team might favor Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter or potentially WR Travis Hunter. Owner Jimmy Haslam emphasized not forcing a QB selection if the value isn't there.
If they bypass a QB early, Day 2 becomes crucial. Potential targets include:
Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss): A productive passer (4,279 yards, 29 TDs in 2024) with good arm talent, though questions exist about his transition from Ole Miss's spread offense. Some analysts project a trade back into Round 1 for him.
Jalen Milroe (Alabama): An exceptional dual-threat QB (726 rushing yards, 20 rushing TDs in 2024) whose passing consistency is the main concern. Requires a tailored offensive scheme. Browns OC Tommy Rees coached him in 2023.
Tyler Shough (Louisville): A mature prospect (turns 26 in 2025) with good size and arm talent, but a lengthy injury history across his seven-year college career.
GM Andrew Berry and Coach Kevin Stefanski have indicated openness to different QB styles, reflecting the evolution of NFL offenses.
Veteran Considerations
Beyond the draft, the Browns are keeping options open. Joe Flacco, the 2023 hero, is being considered, offering experience and familiarity. Kirk Cousins is another name mentioned, though acquiring him would require a trade with Atlanta.
Actionable Takeaway: The Browns' approach—whether drafting a QB early, targeting one on Day 2, pursuing a veteran, or a combination—will dictate the offensive identity and ceiling for the 2025 season and potentially define their QB situation for years to come.
Q: Who is currently expected to start at QB for the Browns in 2025?
A: With Deshaun Watson likely out for most, if not all, of the season, recently acquired Kenny Pickett is the top internal option. However, the Browns are expected to add competition through the draft or free agency/trade.
Q: Why wouldn't the Browns use the No. 2 pick on a quarterback?
A: Team leadership, including owner Jimmy Haslam, has stated they won't "force" a QB pick. They may grade another player (like DE Abdul Carter or WR Travis Hunter) higher or prefer QB prospects available later in the draft.
Q: Which quarterback prospects are linked to the Browns after the top tier?
A: Day 2 prospects frequently mentioned include Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss), Jalen Milroe (Alabama), and Tyler Shough (Louisville). There's also speculation the Browns could trade back into the first round to secure a player like Dart.
The Browns acknowledge past mistakes and are actively working to stabilize their quarterback position.
The 2025 NFL Draft is pivotal; watch for their strategy with the No. 2 pick and potential moves on Day 2.
Expect further QB additions, potentially including prospects like Dart, Milroe, or Shough, or even a veteran like Joe Flacco.
The path Cleveland chooses will significantly impact their offensive direction and playoff aspirations for the upcoming season and beyond.
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Source 1: If Browns draft Abdul Carter at No. 2, three QBs could be in play on Day 2 target="_blank"
Source 2: Browns owner Jimmy Haslam admits team 'took a big swing and miss' with Deshaun Watson target="_blank"
Source 3: Browns Projected to Make Shocking NFL Draft Trade for New QB target="_blank"
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