From QB chaos to defensive studs: Re-grading the Browns wild 2025 NFL Draft class originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
One year later, the dust has settled on GM Andrew Berry’s 2025 draft. Loads of positive results are also held down by a few confusing decisions.
Bleacher Report re-graded last year's NFL Draft class following their rookie season. Cleveland received a glowing "A-" grade, noting that we should "give the Browns credit for an outstanding group of rookies, while admitting they fell just short of the goal."
The "defensive studs" portion of the class is undeniably elite. Carson Schwesinger didn’t just meet expectations; he shattered them as the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Alongside him, first-rounder Mason Graham became the disruptive force on the defensive line that helped catapult Myles Garrett to the single season sack record. Harold Fannin Jr. was a genius selection in the third round as he emerged as a legitimate starting TE weapon, and led the team in several offensive categories. Running back Quinshon Judkins was leading first-year rushers before a knee injury in Week 16 ended his rookie campaign.
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However, the chaotic decisions at quarterback were concerning to say the least. Shedeur Sanders showed flashes of brilliance, even snagging a Pro Bowl alternate nod, but the decision to also draft Dillon Gabriel was a complete swing and a miss. Gabriel struggled to adjust to the pro speed, and burning two picks on QBs felt redundant. Especially a third rounder on Gabriel, whose pro ceiling looks to be that of a fringe backup.
The real head-scratcher along with the double quarterbacks? Berry also drafting a second running back in Dylan Sampson while ignoring the aging offensive line and depth at safety.
If Berry had prioritized a tackle or guard over a backup QB and a luxury RB, Cleveland wouldn't be in as dire straits—facing an offseason where all five starting O-linemen are hitting free agency.
It’s a class of home runs and confusing bunts. If Sanders becomes "the guy," Berry will be lauded as being brilliant. If not, we’ll be looking back at those missed O-line prospects with major regret.
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