The Cleveland Browns hold the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, and the speculation is running wild. Following the initial waves of free agency, analysts and draft experts are more divided than ever on which direction the Browns will go. Will they target a quarterback of the future, or bolster their defense with a top-tier edge rusher? This article breaks down six recent predictions from prominent voices in the NFL draft community, providing insights into the potential paths the Browns could take.
With needs on both sides of the ball, the Browns have options. Their recent trade for Kenny Pickett adds intrigue to the quarterback discussion, but the allure of a dominant defensive force is equally strong. Let’s dive into the mock draft roundup and examine the latest projections for the Browns’ crucial No. 2 pick.
Mel Kiper Jr. – ESPN: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN projects the Browns to select Edge Abdul Carter from Penn State. Kiper acknowledges the quarterback possibility but leans towards the Browns leveraging their trade for Kenny Pickett and pairing Myles Garrett with another elite edge rusher. He envisions Carter thriving in Jim Schwartz’s aggressive defensive scheme, forming a formidable pass-rushing duo.
“While Kiper doesn’t rule out the possibility of taking a quarterback, he considers the move the Browns made in trading for Pickett and the potential of a veteran quarterback to go another direction with the No. 2 pick…pairing of DE Myles Garrett and Carter together as top-tier edge rushers…”
This pick addresses the Browns’ need to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks and could significantly elevate their defense.
Daniel Jeremiah – NFL.com: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com echoes Kiper’s prediction, also mocking Abdul Carter to the Browns at No. 2. Jeremiah suggests the Browns might prioritize Carter and address the quarterback position in the later rounds. He argues that this approach could be a more strategic move for the team’s long-term success.
“Jeremiah writes the Browns could consider taking Carter at No. 2 and then look to take a quarterback in the second round instead of the other way around – an option he believes is the better choice for the Browns.”
Jeremiah’s analysis highlights the depth of talent at the edge rusher position in this draft class and the potential value of securing a player like Carter early on.
Nick Baumgardner – The Athletic: Cam Ward, QB, Miami
Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic offers a contrasting perspective, projecting the Browns to select quarterback Cam Ward from Miami. Baumgardner believes Ward is the premier QB prospect in the 2025 draft and a worthy investment for the Browns’ future.
“Baumgardner writes that he believes Ward is the best QB prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, and If the Browns are sold on drafting a quarterback with the No. 2 pick, he would be the choice.”
This pick signals a commitment to finding a long-term solution at quarterback and potentially moving on from Deshaun Watson if Ward develops as anticipated.
John Kosko – Pro Football Focus: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
John Kosko of Pro Football Focus (PFF) predicts the Browns will draft Shedeur Sanders, quarterback from Colorado. Despite mocking a trade for another team to take Ward, Kosko believes the Browns will stay put and draft Sanders to lead them back to contention.
“Kosko writes the Browns need a quarterback to lead them back to contention and believes Sanders’ experiences can help him do so.”
Kosko’s rationale centers on Sanders’ experience and perceived ability to immediately contribute to a winning culture.
Mike Renner – CBS Sports: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
Mike Renner of CBS Sports returns to the defensive side of the ball, mocking Abdul Carter to the Browns. Renner notes that if Cam Ward were available, the Browns would likely select him. However, with Ward off the board in this scenario, the Browns opt for the dominant defensive presence of Carter.
“Renner writes that if Ward is available at No. 2, he believes the Browns would take Ward. But if he’s not, the combination of Carter alongside former Defensive Player of the Year in Garrett over the next five seasons would be tough to pass on.”
This pick underscores the Browns’ potential to create a historically dominant pass rush with Garrett and Carter.
Ryan Fowler – Draft Network: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
Ryan Fowler of Draft Network presents a wildcard pick, projecting the Browns to select Travis Hunter from Colorado. Fowler sees Hunter as a versatile player with All-Pro potential on both offense and defense.
“Fowler views Hunter as an immediate plug-and-play starter for the Browns and writes that Hunner has All-Pro ceiling on both sides of the ball.”
This selection highlights the Browns’ willingness to embrace unique talent and potentially reshape their roster with a dynamic player like Hunter.
Conclusion: Browns Draft Decision Looms
The mock draft predictions for the Cleveland Browns’ No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft paint a diverse picture. Experts are torn between addressing the quarterback position with prospects like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders and bolstering the defense with an elite edge rusher like Abdul Carter. The wildcard pick of Travis Hunter adds another layer of intrigue, showcasing the Browns’ potential to think outside the box.
Ultimately, the Browns’ decision will depend on their evaluation of the available talent, their assessment of their current roster needs, and their long-term vision for the franchise. One thing is clear: the No. 2 pick presents a pivotal opportunity for the Browns to shape their future and contend for championships.
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