The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a precarious position heading into the offseason, as the quarterback situation becomes increasingly dire. With Deshaun Watson suffering another Achilles rupture during his recovery, the team must rethink its future under center.
Many assume that the Browns will use their No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select a quarterback. However, if Cam Ward is taken first overall, Shedeur Sanders, another top prospect, may not want to play in Cleveland, leaving the team with tough decisions to make.
Draft or Free Agency?
Should the Browns decide to pass on drafting a quarterback at No. 2, free agency becomes a viable route. Three big names have already surfaced as potential targets: Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers, and Kirk Cousins.
Among these, Aaron Rodgers has emerged as one of the most intriguing options. Richard Louis of Factory of Sadness recently named the veteran quarterback as one of the “most likely” starters for Cleveland next season.
“Granted, he’s 41 years old and will turn 42 during the 2025 season. Cleveland may not get a better option under center, especially for a team looking to make the playoffs again. Giving Rodgers a one-year deal to be the stopgap may be the Browns’ best option,” Louis wrote.
Rodgers: A Bridge to Success?
Rodgers, coming off a solid 2024 season with the New York Jets, could provide the stability Cleveland desperately needs. In 17 games last season, he completed 63% of his passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, along with 107 rushing yards.
While he may no longer be the elite MVP-caliber player he once was, those numbers represent a significant upgrade over the Browns’ current quarterback production. Additionally, Rodgers’ veteran presence could help guide the team back into playoff contention.
However, for this scenario to unfold, Rodgers would need to part ways with the Jets, which many analysts believe is a plausible outcome.
The Browns’ Offseason Outlook
Cleveland faces a defining offseason, one that will shape its trajectory for years to come. Whether they opt for a young talent in the draft or a proven veteran in free agency, the decision at quarterback will be critical.
Rodgers could serve as a reliable bridge while the Cleveland Browns develop a long-term plan. Alternatively, they could take a chance on a rookie and build from the ground up.
Regardless of the path they choose, the Browns must ensure their next move strengthens the roster and re-establishes their competitiveness in a tough AFC North. As fans eagerly await answers, one thing is clear: Cleveland’s quarterback search will be a focal point of the 2025 offseason.
