The Cleveland Browns made a calculated decision during the recent draft, opting to trade down from the No. 2 pick to No. 5. It was a move that may raise eyebrows considering they passed on Travis Hunter, a player many consider a generational talent, but it sets them up uniquely for the future, particularly in terms of quarterback prospects.
By teaming up with the Jacksonville Jaguars on this trade, the Browns didn’t just drop three spots in the draft order; they also brought home some significant assets. In addition to the fifth pick, they secured the 36th overall selection in the second round, the 126th pick in the fourth round, and a first-round pick for 2026. It was a smart play, because while they may have sacrificed Hunter, they gained enough firepower in this draft and beyond to reshape their roster.
With their new picks, the Browns selected Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham at No. 5, targeting a position that often acts as the backbone of any successful defense. But they didn’t stop there. Holding the 33rd and 36th overall picks means they are poised to make some impactful choices early in the second round. This could be particularly crucial in a year that boasts a potentially star-studded quarterback class in 2024. Should the Browns ultimately decide they want to move up in that quarterback hierarchy, they now have the tools to do so.
Yes, the Browns still have an immediate need to evaluate quarterback options in this draft class. There are intriguing names like Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, and Tyler Shough that have caught their interest. But general manager Andrew Berry has made it clear: they won’t be pressured into picking a quarterback if the right fit isn’t available. They are comfortable with their current stable of quarterbacks, which includes Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco, thus eliminating the urgency to reach for a signal-caller.
Berry’s strategy reflects a broader understanding of the draft’s ebbs and flows. In the weeks leading up to the draft, it became clear that the Browns were likely to pass on Shedeur Sanders—a player they once had in their sights—favoring a strategic retrenchment that would yield additional future benefits. The allure of securing multiple high-round picks, especially in a draft class they believe might be deeper, ultimately swayed their decision.
“By moving down three spots, we not only secured a top prospect but also positioned ourselves favorably for the future,” said Berry after the selection of Graham. His excitement about adding Graham and the accompanying resources is palpable, as he understands how critical these picks are in a league where depth can make all the difference.
The 2023 draft marks a pivotal moment for the Browns, especially following a disappointing 3-14 record last season. They are aiming for a turnaround, and having two early second-round picks allows them to revamp their roster significantly. Berry acknowledges that their previous trade down from No. 2 in 2016 didn’t yield the success they had hoped for—having only Denzel Ward as a standout from that batch of picks—but this time around, the Browns are eager to hit paydirt.
As Berry put it, “We have five picks in the top 103 selections, with a chance to add young, impactful players. This draft could be our turning point.” The emphasis on developing these players post-draft is crucial. It’s not merely about acquiring talent; it’s about nurturing that talent into contributors on the field.
Berry sees the current draft as loaded with potential, especially on Day 2, observing that the talent pool is robust and favorable to teams looking to fill needs. His belief in the strength of this year’s second round could pay dividends as they aim to reshape their squad.
With eyes on next year’s quarterback class—boasting talents like Arch Manning and Drew Allar—the Browns feel confident they have laid the groundwork for future success. Should they find themselves in the hunt for a franchise quarterback next year, the resources they have amassed will be invaluable. It’s a strategic chess move that positions the Browns favorably for years to come, with flexibility and opportunity at the forefront of their draft philosophy.
In navigating this draft, the Browns made the type of decision that could resonate through their franchise’s history. Time will reveal whether this gamble pays off, but for now, they are armed with the picks and the potential to write their own winning story.
