The Cleveland Browns are preparing for what promises to be a transformative NFL offseason, with strategic maneuvers aiming to address their many roster needs and improve their standing after finishing the 2024 season with only three wins. The team is currently grappling with significant financial challenges, as they sit $24 million over the salary cap. This situation will require clever adjustments via roster cuts, contract restructures, and potential trades to free up space for meaningful acquisitions.
Key to their offseason strategy will be the fate of star running back Nick Chubb, who has been integral to the team since being drafted. Chubb is expected to sign another contract following his down season marred by injuries; he only played eight games and rushed for 332 yards with three touchdowns, recovering from both a broken foot and lasting leg issues. Despite this, he remains the heartbeat of the organization, with general manager Andrew Berry stating, "What happened to Nick (Chubb) last year was very unfortunate. He had no desire to be anywhere besides Cleveland. We had no desire for him to take his last snap as a Brown." With other teams eyeing Chubb, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Browns must prioritize keeping him.
With the NFL Draft fast approaching on April 24, 2025, the Browns possess the No. 2 overall pick and have the opportunity to reshape their roster. This draft capital, combined with their 12 total picks, gives them leverage to make bold moves. The front office faces scrutiny over whether to select a quarterback, with reports indicating they are considering Miami's Cam Ward or Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. Insider Mary Kay Cabot reported, "They’re strongly considering drafting a quarterback with their No. 2 overall pick..." Selecting one of these young talents could signal the Browns' intent to build for the future rather than patching the quarterback position with aging veterans.
Meanwhile, there are questions surrounding edge rusher Myles Garrett, who has publicly requested to be traded to a Super Bowl contender. This situation poses yet another dilemma for the Browns as they evaluate their competitive window. If they decide to part ways with Garrett, the Browns would need to find his replacement through either free agency or the draft. Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport believes it would be wise for the team to pursue defensive help with their top selection. He stated, "If the Cleveland Browns have any sense, the team will take a quarterback at No. 2 overall... But they should not be the only pick the Browns make on April 24." This suggests they should balance their roster needs across both sides of the ball, especially if they lose Garrett.
Additional insights suggest the Browns could look at edge rushers like Abdul Carter from Penn State as possible targets. He's garnered comparisons to Micah Parsons for his explosive playstyle and could provide immediate impact if Garrett's exit creates a vacancy. The NFL Draft certainly presents Cleveland with avenues to address glaring deficiencies on their defense.
Overall, the focus for the Cleveland Browns this offseason includes not only signing impactful players but also rebuilding from within. The combination of drafting promising talents, solidifying key contracts, and managing cap spaces lays the groundwork for advancement toward their goals. With such significant numbers and facing considerable pressure, fans are hopeful for the team to finally step back toward playoff contention.
It's clear: whether they remain loyal to Chubb, trade Garrett, or effectively maneuver through free agency, the Browns are under the spotlight. The decisions made now will likely define their path moving forward and reignite hopes among devoted fans experiencing years of stagnation.