After wrapping up a rough 2024 season, the Cleveland Browns have officially learned their draft fate, securing the second overall pick for the 2025 NFL Draft. Following their significant 35-10 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens, the Browns finished with a disappointing 3-14 record. Yet, fortune smiled upon them when the New England Patriots bested the Buffalo Bills 23-16, resulting in the Patriots dropping to the fourth pick and allowing the Browns to slide up, improving their positioning.
The matchups played out dramatically on the final day. The Tennessee Titans, who held hopes of securing the top spot, fell to the Houston Texans 23-14. Had they emerged victorious, the Browns would have been left fighting for the first pick rather than comfortably sitting at number two. This positive shift marks the first time the Browns have boasted this draft pick since 2021, when they selected cornerback Greg Newsome II with the 26th overall choice.
Now, with the 2025 offseason anticipated to be pivotal for the franchise, as it attempts to transition away from its long-standing underperformance. This period is deemed significant particularly after high hopes for the previous season. Browns VP of Football Operations and General Manager, Andrew Berry, faces the challenge of leveraging this newfound draft capital to spark the team’s return to competitiveness.
The team currently holds nine selections in the upcoming NFL draft, including four within the first three rounds. Their picks are as follows:
- 1st Round (own)
- 2nd Round (own)
- 3rd Round (own)
- 3rd Round (from Buffalo)
- 4th Round (own)
- 5th Round (from Detroit)
- 6th Round (own)
- 6th Round (from Chicago via Miami)
- 6th Round (from Minnesota)
These resources provide Berry ample opportunity to address the needs of the roster and invigorate the team. The Browns have seen several draft-related setbacks, including the trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson, which cost them their picks over the past few years. This time around, they have both the power and the responsibility to shape their future.
During the past seasons, Cleveland repeatedly found itself not only struggling on the field but also grappling with drafting decisions. The last time they held high draft picks, they opted for quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and Denzel Ward during the 2018 draft—moves viewed as definitive turning points, at least initially. How they capitalize on their upcoming selections becomes critically important.
Last season, the Browns endured substantial challenges with their quarterback play, with players like Dorian Thompson-Robinson averaging just 4.5 points per game as starters. Compounding the disarray was the fallout from the Watson trade. With the selection of high talent now firmly within their grasp, the stakes are higher than ever.
The upcoming draft has some consensus top prospects, bringing excitement among fans and the front office. Players such as Travis Hunter, a versatile CB/WR from Colorado, and Will Johnson, another strong corner prospect from Michigan, could be transformative for the Browns if selected. It’s imperative the Browns evaluate their needs and seize this chance to rebuild their reputation within the league.
Past execution oversights cannot derail this moment. For the Browns, who have faced seasons mired at the bottom of the NFL standings, getting it right at the draft table could mark the beginning of their ascent from the depths of the league. Despite existing frustrations, the hope remains palpable for both management and fans alike.
With the chance to reform the team through the draft, the Browns are expected to approach this offseason with renewed vigor and focus on strategic needs. Berry's ability to not just use the draft picks but to understand player potentials could dictate the next chapter for the organization. Looking forward, Cleveland's fans are eager to see the fruits of this labor replayed on the field come fall.