Browns Weigh Quarterback Options Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

BEREA, Ohio — With the 2025 NFL Draft looming just weeks away, the Cleveland Browns are intensifying their search for a new quarterback following a series of significant roster changes.

The organization recently traded for quarterback Kenny Pickett, who was a backup last season. This move comes as starter Deshaun Watson is expected to miss a substantial part of the season due to an Achilles injury. Currently, Pickett and a still-to-be-determined addition comprise the Browns’ quarterback roster, leaving room for upgrades.

The Browns’ management, including head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry, has been active in evaluating this year’s draft prospects. Last week, they hosted a private workout for former University of Miami quarterback Tyler Van Dyke to assess his potential.

As the draft approaches on April 24 in Green Bay, the Browns hold the second overall pick and are in a favorable position to choose from the top-rated quarterbacks. Many analysts, including ESPN’s Adam Schefter, predict the Browns may capitalize on this opportunity to pick Penn State’s edge rusher, Chop Robinson, if they choose to prioritize defense over selecting a quarterback.

However, if the Browns bypass this opportunity, they may still have the chance to select a potential starter on Day 2 of the draft, holding picks 33, 67, and 94. Among the quarterbacks they may target is Jaxson Dart, a three-year starter from Ole Miss. Dart completed 69.3% of his passes for 4,279 yards, with 29 touchdowns and six interceptions last season, leading college football in yards per attempt.

Despite Dart’s impressive statistics, some scouts express concerns about his transition to the NFL from a spread offense. “He’s shown tools that he can make throws at all three levels of the field,” said an NFL quarterbacks coach. “The real question is what he can grasp from the playbook.”

The Browns also have an eye on Jalen Milroe from Alabama, widely viewed as the best dual-threat quarterback in the draft. Milroe ran a 40-yard dash in the low 4.4-second range and accumulated impressive combined stats—2,844 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 726 rushing yards last season. However, questions persist about his consistency as a passer.

An AFC area scout stated, “The team that drafts Milroe will need a patient and dedicated plan to nurture him as a passer.” The scout compared Milroe’s potential to that of Jalen Hurts, noting the possibility for growth under the right offensive scheme.

Tyler Shough, who transferred to Louisville and had a productive season following years of injury setbacks, is another name circulating as a possible Day 2 selection. He finished his 2024 season with career highs of 3,195 passing yards and 23 touchdowns. Despite his injury history, scouts believe he possesses the maturity and intelligence to excel in the league.

“He just has had to deal with a lot of adversity,” said a quarterbacks coach about Shough. “He’s smart and athletic enough to be effective in situational instances.”

As the draft approaches, Browns officials remain open to various quarterback styles, recognizing the evolution of the NFL. “Offensive football has evolved, and we’re looking at players who can thrive in today’s game,” said Berry in February.

With the clock ticking toward the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns must decide whether to draft a quarterback early or seek talent later in the rounds—all while under pressure to solidify their future at the game’s most crucial position.