As the 2025 NFL Draft quickly approaches, the Cleveland Browns are facing a pivotal moment. With the No. 2 overall pick in hand, the team has an opportunity to make a game-changing move.
After a disappointing season, the Browns need to address key areas of their roster. While their defense showed flashes of strength, with stars like Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, their offensive struggles were too apparent to ignore.
Now, the focus is on fixing the offensive line and pass rush. But with so many needs to fill, the Browns must be strategic. Could this year’s draft hold the key to solving multiple problems at once?
Who is the Key to Solving Cleveland’s Roster Woes?
In an unexpected turn, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has suggested the Browns may look in a different direction than top-rated QB Cam Ward. During a segment on Get Up with Mike Greenberg, Schefter hinted that Cleveland might bypass Ward if he’s already selected first overall. In that case, the Browns could target players like Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter—two of the most versatile and highly rated prospects in the draft.
While many still believe the Browns should go quarterback, this new twist on their draft strategy has fans wondering if they should take advantage of one of these game-changing players instead.
Travis Hunter, CB/WR | Colorado
Travis Hunter is one of the most dynamic and versatile players in college football. Coming off a historic season with the Colorado Buffaloes, Hunter played both wide receiver and cornerback, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball.
As a wide receiver, Hunter is a vertical threat with impressive agility and the ability to create separation from defenders. With 721 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2023, he proved he can make plays downfield. On the other side of the ball, Hunter has locked down opposing wide receivers as a cornerback, making him an instant asset to any NFL defense.
For the Browns, Hunter could be the perfect addition to their struggling passing game. Cleveland has talent at receiver, but they need someone who can make an immediate impact and provide a spark. Pairing Hunter with Jerry Jeudy could give the Browns a dynamic one-two punch at wide receiver.
Abdul Carter, EDGE | Penn State
Another player the Browns could target is Abdul Carter, the top-ranked player in the 2025 draft. A 6’3″, 250-pound pass rusher, Carter has long been regarded as the most complete defensive player in the class.
In 2024, Carter transitioned from linebacker to edge rusher, posting 43 solo tackles and 12 sacks, ranking seventh in the nation. His versatility, combined with his quickness and football IQ, makes him a nightmare for offensive lines. Pairing him with Myles Garrett would give the Browns one of the most fearsome pass-rushing duos in the NFL, capable of wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
QB or EDGE: What’s the Best Move for the Browns?
If Schefter’s prediction comes true and Ward is selected first overall, Cleveland will have the chance to grab one of these top-tier prospects. While many experts believe the Browns should go QB, there’s no denying that securing a player like Hunter or Carter could transform the roster. Hunter would address both the Browns’ receiving and secondary needs, while Carter could provide immediate help in the pass rush.
If Cleveland passes on a quarterback with the No. 2 pick, they could still address the position later. If Shedeur Sanders falls to the 29th pick, the Browns could grab him and secure a potential future starter. Pairing Sanders with Hunter would give Cleveland a dynamic duo, and both players have the chemistry from their time at Colorado.
As the draft date approaches, the Browns face some tough decisions. Will they go for the QB of the future, or will they opt for a player who can make an immediate impact on both sides of the ball? Either way, the 2025 NFL Draft is sure to shape Cleveland’s future for years to come.
