As the 2025 NFL Draft kicked off, the Cleveland Browns found themselves in a prime position with the No. 2 overall pick. The buzz was all about Travis Hunter, the dynamic two-way star from Colorado. His potential as both a defensive back and a wide receiver had experts predicting All-Pro honors in his future.
With the Browns needing a versatile talent, Hunter seemed like the perfect fit. Their free agency moves had landed them Jerry Jeudy as their top wide receiver, and they were eyeing changes in their cornerback lineup, particularly with Greg Newsome II potentially on the move.
However, in a bold and unexpected twist, Andrew Berry and the Browns decided to trade their coveted pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars. This move allowed the Jaguars to select Hunter, while Cleveland acquired a wealth of draft assets, including Michigan's defensive tackle Mason Graham at No. 5, running back Quinshon Judkins at No. 36, and a future first-round pick in 2026.
Critics were quick to question Cleveland's decision, fearing they had passed on a generational talent. But as the season unfolded, the trade began to look like a stroke of genius. A CBS Sports re-draft even painted the deal as a major win for the Browns.
Hunter's rookie season was marred by a torn LCL, leading to season-ending surgery in November. Meanwhile, Jacksonville's offense found new life with a midseason trade for Jakobi Meyers, going 9-1 after Hunter's injury and planning to utilize him primarily on defense moving forward.
On the flip side, the Browns reaped immediate benefits from their new additions. Mason Graham was a standout, starting all 17 games and becoming a force as a pass rusher, especially from Week 10 onward, where he recorded 23 of his 36 QB pressures.
Blake Brockermeyer, a former NFL player and now a college football analyst, gave Cleveland high praise in his re-draft, ranking Graham higher than Hunter. He envisioned Graham going to the Packers at No. 23 and Hunter to the Chiefs at No.
- Additionally, he projected quarterback Tyler Shough, who had a breakout with the Saints, to the Browns at No.
The Browns also struck gold with linebacker Carson Schwesinger, whom Brockermeyer placed at No. 12 in his re-draft. Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. was another standout, flirting with first-round consideration.
Andrew Berry's 2025 draft strategy, particularly the gutsy trade with Jacksonville, is increasingly being viewed as a masterclass in team building. The Browns not only secured immediate contributors but also set themselves up for long-term success, proving that sometimes the boldest moves yield the greatest rewards.