Jedrick Wills, the former Cleveland Browns offensive lineman and No. 10 pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, is reportedly planning to sit out the 2025 season to recover from a serious knee injury. According to Fox Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Wills “is planning to sit most or possibly all of” 2025 to nurse his knee, believing it’s the right decision for his long-term future. Despite interest from multiple clubs, Wills’ decision comes after a 2024 season where he was limited to just five games due to an ongoing knee issue, including a sprained MCL that sidelined him for eight games. The Browns, who chose not to re-sign him after his five-year rookie deal expired, are moving on, but Wills’ absence from the field in 2025 is a significant development for a player who’s been a key part of their offensive line.
Wills’ tenure with the Browns was marked by promise and potential. Drafted to protect Baker Mayfield after a brutal 2019 season, Wills was part of a makeover that included signing Jack Conklin. The results were immediate, with the Browns finishing 11-5 and reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2002, stunning the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round for their first playoff win since 1994. Wills appeared in 58 games over five seasons, starting 57, and was instrumental in Nick Chubb’s three 1,000-yard seasons from 2020 to 2022. While he never reached Pro Bowl or All-Pro status, Wills was above-average, a useful addition for any team looking to bolster pass protection.
The decision to sit out 2025 is a calculated one, aimed at ensuring Wills can return healthy and effective. His knee issues have been a recurring theme, limiting him to 13 appearances over the last two seasons, and the Browns’ choice to let him walk suggests they’re unsure of his reliability. But for Wills, it’s about longevity. “He believes taking time off to get healthy is the best move for the long-term future of his career,” Schultz noted. It’s a risky move, given his free agent status, but it’s also a statement of intent. When he’s ready to play again, likely in 2026, expect considerable interest. Teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets, and Los Angeles Rams have been mentioned as potential fits, valuing his experience and potential despite the injury concerns.
For now, though, Wills is sidelined, and the NFL waits. The Browns are moving forward, with new pieces like Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel, but Wills’ story is far from over. His decision to prioritize health over immediate gain is a reminder of the toll the game takes, and for fans, it’s a wait-and-see game. Stay tuned, because when Wills returns, he could be a difference-maker, but for 2025, it’s all about recovery. The NFL’s a tough place, and for Wills, it’s about making the right call for the long haul.
