Browns’ Free Agency Moves Raise Questions Ahead of NFL Draft

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns made minimal waves during the first week of NFL free agency, culminating in a record-breaking extension for star pass rusher Myles Garrett one day before negotiations officially opened. As the team re-signed several depth players, including left guard Joel Bitonio and right tackle Jack Conklin, the focus has turned to reinvigorating an offense that ranked last in scoring last season.

Quarterback Kenny Pickett, newly acquired through a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is positioned to battle for the starting role, but external competition remains sparse. Cleveland traded a fifth-round pick to secure Pickett’s services but has not made additional moves to fill the quarterback slot, even as potential free agents like Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers loom on the market.

Wilson, who visited the Browns but left without a deal, remains an intriguing option as multiple teams are vying for his signature. The lingering uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position reflects the Browns’ cautious approach amid a tumultuous offseason wherein they shuffled through four quarterbacks in 2024.

General manager Andrew Berry has stated that while the Browns entered free agency with approximately $12 million in cap space, they are not restricted from investing in high-profile quarterbacks. However, the team faces scrutiny over its current roster, which includes burden from Deshaun Watson’s substantial contract, particularly as he continues to recover from a torn Achilles tendon.

The 2025 NFL Draft is fast approaching, with Cleveland holding the second overall pick. The team is expected to look closely at quarterback prospects, having already hosted some for interviews and visits. With Pickett indicated as a starter by the coaching staff, many observers are puzzled by the Browns’ lack of aggressive moves to secure a veteran presence at the position.

“Just leaning on Andrew and his expertise, I know he has a plan for what this team and this offense will look like moving forward,” Garrett remarked last week, emphasizing confidence in the front office’s strategy. “We’re going to put the best offense possible out there.”

Despite their earnest hopes, the Browns have not bolstered their wide receiver or running back corps significantly. Prominent players like Jerry Jeudy and others are now off the board after signing elsewhere. The lack of complementary additions only heightens the stakes heading into the draft where they could focus on receivers or backs in a deep class.

The Browns’ depth chart currently lists Pickett as the starter, with Watson in recovery as backup and Jerome Ford as the starting running back. As they seek to solidify their roster, the team acknowledges the need for a multifaceted strategy to redress offensive shortcomings.

The looming draft will provide an opportunity for Cleveland to reshape its identity on offense while the clock ticks on determining its quarterback situation—an endeavor that might dictate the success of the upcoming season.