Written by Tim Carnell
May 29, 2025

This offseason was full of surprises. Free agency was a huge part of the offseason for a lot of teams in the league. The Texans and Browns made moves early when they made a trade that ultimately saved the Texas from the tragedy that was Brock Osweiler. Rising star, Terrelle Pryor, left the Browns, leaving the offense with Corey Coleman as the number one option. They later signed Kenny Britt to cover their loss, hoping he’s able to replicate the production he had last season. Britt is well experienced with poor quarterback play, coming from Los Angeles, who started Case Keenum for majority of the year. When Keenum didn’t start, an underdeveloped Goff did. Britt was still able to be productive, having 68 receptions with 1,003 yards.

The Browns also made contributions to their offensive line, which ranked 16th overall in the league, according to profootballfocus.com. J.C. Tretter, Center, and Kevin Zeitler, Right Guard, both signed with the Browns, fortifying an offensive line that already included Joe Thomas and Joel Bitonio. Tretter, former Packer, is the No. 8 overall run-blocking center in the league. Zeiter, former Bengal, is the No. 9 run-blocker at the position. Bitonio performed so well in his rookie season that PFF awarded him with Runner-up for their annual Rookie of the Year award behind only Odell Beckham Jr. This impressive group is anchored by future Hall of Famer Joe Thomas. His accomplishments include being a 10x Pro-Bowler and 7x First-Team All-Pro recipient.

Cleveland had nearly a dozen picks in this year’s NFL Draft. With the first overall pick they selected Myles Garrett, Defensive End, out of Texas A&M. Garrett is an elite pass rusher that will make an immediate impact next season. In 2016, the Browns finished the season tied for 30th in sacks. With their second first round pick, the 25th overall, they selected Jabrill Peppers. The explosive Safety out of Michigan will add an immediate impact on defense and special teams. David Njoku was their third first round selection, adding a reliable target for whichever quarterback ends up starting this season. Notre Dame quarterback, DeShone Kizer, was selected with the 52nd overall pick. With Cody Kessler and Brock Osweiler as the only competition, Kizor has the chance to become an immediate starter. With their last few picks they improved their defense, adding DL Larry Ogunjobi, DT Caleb Brantley, and CB Howard Wilson. Roderick Johnson, OL out of Florida State adds depth to the offensive line that they formed in the offseason. The final addition, to a team that has been one of the worst teams in the league, was Zane Gonzalez. Gonzalez is the all-time FBS career leader for made field goals with 96 and became the first kicker drafted by the Browns since 1989. He holds six FBS records, most ever for a kicker. The Browns made some very impressive moves this offseason and I think they may have done just enough to surprise us all.