Browns Eye Key Draft Picks to Rebuild Roster as Deshaun Watson’s Struggles and Injury Highlight Urgent Need for Change
The Cleveland Browns are entering a crucial period in their rebuilding process, armed with a first-round pick for the first time since 2021 and a top-10 selection that places them in an enviable position to make significant changes. While the spotlight is once again on quarterback Deshaun Watson, whose struggles and recent season-ending injury have put his future in Cleveland under scrutiny, the team must also look beyond the signal caller to address an aging roster that regressed from its 11-win season in 2023.
As the Browns prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, their priority will be to strategically bolster both the offensive and defensive lines, areas that have become glaring weaknesses in recent seasons. But with Watson’s performance and health now at the center of discussions, Cleveland faces an uncertain road ahead as they look to position themselves for sustained success.
Deshaun Watson’s Struggles and Injury Worsen Quarterback Quandary
When the Browns traded for Watson in 2022, the hope was that the talented but troubled quarterback would be the missing piece to elevate the franchise to the next level. However, Watson’s time in Cleveland has been marred by inconsistency, both on and off the field. His struggles have been particularly noticeable in his inability to develop chemistry with his receiving corps and his failure to deliver in key moments.
Adding to the team’s woes, Watson suffered a season-ending injury that has further complicated his future with the Browns. While the team has remained publicly supportive, there’s no denying that his continued struggles and now a serious injury have created uncertainty surrounding his long-term viability as the franchise quarterback.
With Watson’s contract still a significant financial commitment, the Browns may have little choice but to continue building around him for the immediate future. However, it’s also clear that Cleveland cannot afford to sit idly by, hoping that Watson will rediscover his form. A new direction may be needed in the coming seasons, and the draft could provide the team with both the tools and flexibility to address the quarterback position, whether it be through securing a talented backup, drafting a potential successor, or surrounding Watson with additional talent to maximize his effectiveness.
Rebuilding the Trenches: Key Draft Focus
While the quarterback position will undoubtedly be in the spotlight, Cleveland’s aging roster is another critical area of concern. The Browns’ offensive line, once considered one of the league’s best, has shown signs of regression in recent seasons, and their defensive line has similarly lacked the dominance they boasted in previous years.
The Browns’ top-10 draft pick gives them a prime opportunity to address these issues head-on, especially in the trenches where depth and youth are in short supply. The team will likely prioritize offensive linemen and defensive front-seven players to give their roster a much-needed infusion of talent and athleticism.
On the offensive side, the Browns have already invested heavily in their running game, but protecting Watson—or his potential successor—has to become a top priority moving forward. A powerful, agile offensive line is essential to ensuring the quarterback’s success and establishing a consistent running game to take pressure off the signal caller.
On defense, the Browns have relied on their pass rush to generate pressure, but with key players aging, it’s crucial they find reinforcements. Adding youth and energy to the defensive line will be vital for keeping their defense competitive in the high-powered AFC North division.
Other Key Areas to Address
Beyond the trenches, the Browns will also need to consider strengthening other areas of their roster. The receiver group, while talented, lacks the consistency necessary to provide Watson with reliable weapons, especially when injuries and drops have been an issue. Adding another dynamic receiver could be an option, particularly if the team moves away from Watson and chooses to develop a new quarterback with a stronger supporting cast.
The secondary, too, could be an area of focus, as the Browns’ defensive backfield has been exposed at times, particularly against faster and more dynamic receiving corps. Building depth and talent in this area could allow the Browns to become more balanced on defense and better prepared to handle high-scoring offenses in the AFC.
Looking Ahead: A Critical Year for the Browns
The 2025 NFL Draft will be one of the most important in recent memory for the Cleveland Browns, as the team faces crucial decisions that will shape its immediate future. While the struggles of Deshaun Watson remain a primary talking point, the broader need to rebuild and replenish an aging roster, particularly in the trenches, will be the key to getting this team back on track.
If the Browns can successfully address these areas through the draft and continue to build a more complete and balanced roster, they could see significant improvements in 2025 and beyond. However, with so many question marks surrounding the quarterback position, the team’s future remains uncertain, and their draft strategy will need to reflect that.
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws nearer, expect the Browns to be active in evaluating every opportunity to strengthen their roster. This may be the year that Cleveland finally turns the corner—if they can make the right moves.
Leave a Reply