Myles Garrett, #2 pick in the NFL draft and a veteran QB are keys to the Browns offseason
In general, the Cleveland Browns like to move in silence as much as possible. Things that are obvious are often smoke screens but, sometimes, the very obvious just has to happen.
The Browns offseason this year is headlined by four really important decisions:
- Trade Myles Garrett?
- What will Joel Bitonio decide?
- Sign a veteran QB like Kirk Cousins in NFL free agency or try to trade for Matthew Stafford?
- Who to select with the second overall pick in the NFL draft?
Getting ready to head over to the NFL combine early tomorrow morning, a mock draft and offseason for Cleveland to answer those questions seemed to make sense. While the Browns move in silence, agents and other teams are not so quite so we should hear much more while in Indianapolis but, for now, this is my prediction for the team’s offseason:
Myles Garrett will not get traded
There are too many reasons not to deal the star defender out of Cleveland. Unless a team changes the equation with a huge offer, the Browns will have their best player next year.
Joel Bitonio will play one more season
Not that he is not thinking about retirement but Bitonio seems healthy and has kept up with his workout regime so far this offseason. A final run, not a three-win season, in 2025 is a much better way to go out.
Kirk Cousins will be wearing brown and orange
A Stafford trade is just too expensive but Cousins, like Russell Wilson last year, will be signed to a veteran minimum deal to a team with weapons and a system that fits him. Another year removed from Achilles surgery will also help.
Browns Mock Draft
Using Pro Football Focus’ Mock Draft simulator, based on what I’ve heard, provides the following mock draft for Cleveland:
#2 – CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado
Hunter is a unique player and most believe the most talented player in this draft. How the Browns decide to use him will be interesting but a shutdown cornerback with the skills to take 20 snaps a game at receiver is a true value. Cleveland’s front office might be enamored.
#33 – DT Tyleik Williams, The Ohio State University
The Philadelphia Eagles proved the importance of a great defensive line and the Browns follow suit here.
#67 – QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama
While his Senior Bowl performance may have concerned some, it gives Cleveland a chance to get him a round later than expected and allows him to develop behind Cousins.
#90 – TE Harold Fannin Jr., BGSU
Not sure what PFF has against Fannin but I’m almost confident in saying he won’t fall to the top of the third round much less the bottom of it. If he does, huge help to the Browns.
#102 – RB DJ Giddens, Kansas State
The running back room needs help and this draft is very deep.
#164 – QB Quinn Ewers, Texas
While many fans might be shocked that Ewers is this low, evaluators have real concerns about his physical traits and processing while pressured.
#178 – DE Bradyn Swinson, LSU
More pass rushers, more line help. After you get more, you get some more.
#191 – C/G Jake Majors, Texas
With Bitonio likely retiring after the season and Ethan Pocic set for free agency, building the depth on the interior is important.
#199 – RB Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State
Giddens and Gordon can join Jerome Ford and, hopefully, Nick Chubb to give Cleveland a revamped running back stable.
#215 – TE Oronde Gadsden II, Syracuse
Two years over 900 yards receiving will likely get him drafted higher than this, if not, Cleveland has revamped their tight end room as well this offseason.
#216 – S RJ Mickens, Clemson
With Juan Thornhill’s future up in the air, adding more defensive backs that can play and help on special teams will be huge.
#256 – CB Mac McWilliams, UCF
Mr. Irrelavent continues the trend of Andrew Berry selecting a cornerback.
What do you think if this is what the Browns offseason looks like with the major moves (other additions/subtractions would have to happen as well)?
Share your thoughts below in the comment section