A Defensive Star, Not A New Quarterback.
As the Cleveland Browns sit at a dismal 2-7 record during their bye week, all eyes are on the future. With quarterback
Deshaun Watson sidelined due to a torn Achilles—and his underperformance prior to the injury—the team is in
desperate need of a new signal caller. Yet, in a surprising twist, some experts are predicting that the Browns might
not go the route many expected in the 2025 NFL Draft: selecting a quarterback.
In a recent mock draft by CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards, the Browns are projected to skip over a QB in favor of
bolstering their defense. At No. 5 overall, Cleveland is set to grab Mykel Williams, the standout pass rusher from
Georgia, to pair with star defensive end Myles Garrett. With Za’Darius Smith traded away at the deadline, the
Browns’ defense is in need of a young, impactful edge rusher, and Williams could be the key to maintaining their
defensive dominance.
While the idea of passing on a QB might raise eyebrows given the Browns’ struggles at the position, Edwards
suggests that Cleveland could address their quarterback need in the offseason—either through trade or free agency—
rather than reaching for a rookie quarterback who might need time to develop. In fact, the team may choose to focus
their first-round pick on defensive help, filling the void left by Smith and strengthening the defense around Garrett,
rather than risk drafting a quarterback who may not be ready to start immediately.
With a high pick likely coming their way, the Browns’ decision could hinge on how well they address other key
positions, such as left tackle, where Dawand Jones is still fighting for a stable spot. The Browns’ future hinges on
solidifying these areas before taking the plunge on a quarterback of the future. For now, it seems the Browns are
making a bold prediction for 2025.
