Myles Garrett stays, but the Browns still need a quarterback—What's the plan

The Cleveland Browns made a bold statement about their future by securing a massive contract extension for Myles Garrett. What initially seemed like the beginning of an inevitable full-scale rebuild has now taken a drastic turn. With Garrett locked in, the Browns have solidified a cornerstone of their defense, shifting their focus toward contending rather than starting over from scratch. However, one glaring issue remains: the quarterback position.

The upcoming NFL Draft presents Cleveland Browns with a golden opportunity to address its most pressing concern. Owning the No. 2 overall pick, the Browns now find themselves in a position where selecting a quarterback is not just an option—it is an absolute necessity. While rumors have suggested that Cleveland might explore different directions, the reality is clear. With Garrett committed to the team’s future, passing on a top-tier quarterback prospect would be indefensible.
The names most frequently linked to the Browns at No. 2 are Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. Both signal-callers possess the upside and leadership qualities needed to stabilize Cleveland’s tumultuous quarterback situation. There were initial discussions about drafting Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter, but with Garrett staying put, prioritizing the defensive line no longer holds the same urgency. Unless the Browns shockingly decide to double down on strengthening their front four, the likelihood of selecting Carter seems slim.

Yes, the possibility of trading down for additional picks or selecting wide receiver Travis Hunter exists, but that scenario would contradict the team’s immediate need. Garrett’s previous dissatisfaction with the quarterback situation played a significant role in his initial trade considerations. It is hard to imagine that Cleveland’s leadership, including general manager Andrew Berry, did not assure Garrett that a franchise quarterback would be a priority moving forward.

While drafting a quarterback seems like a foregone conclusion, the Browns must also consider their short-term solution. Deshaun Watson remains under contract until at least 2025, but with his season-long absence looming, Cleveland cannot afford to enter the year without a viable starter. The team has explored various veteran options, and among the most intriguing is a familiar face—Joe Flacco.
Flacco made a remarkable impact in 2023, leading Cleveland on an unexpected playoff run and earning the Comeback Player of the Year award. Yet, despite his resurgence, the Browns opted not to extend him a contract for 2024. The reasoning was evident: keeping both Watson and Flacco on the roster would have caused a divided fanbase, especially given Watson’s struggles. But with Watson now sidelined, Flacco’s return as QB1 suddenly makes sense. At 40, he remains a serviceable option, and given Cleveland’s financial constraints, he could be signed at a low cost.
Carson Wentz has also emerged as a surprise candidate. Nine years after Cleveland passed on him in the draft, they now have an opportunity to acquire him at a bargain price. Pairing Wentz with a rookie quarterback could provide the Browns with a transitional plan, ensuring that their young signal-caller has a veteran presence to lean on.

With the quarterback situation in disarray, Cleveland’s decision at No. 2 will define its trajectory. Miami’s Cam Ward could be off the board at No. 1, which might prompt the Browns to trade up to secure him. Given the team’s history of instability at quarterback, it is imperative that they finally land a franchise-caliber player to lead them forward.
What cannot be ignored is the lasting impact of the Browns’ costly decision to acquire Watson in 2022, surrendering three first-round picks and committing $230 million in guaranteed money. The franchise has been in a tailspin ever since, and now, with limited cap space, signing Sam Darnold or any high-priced free agent is simply not realistic.
Also Read: Why Myles Garrett’s trade request was never about money, despite his big Browns extension
At this point, all speculation should be put to rest. Cleveland must draft a quarterback. Anything less would not only defy logic but would also shatter any remaining trust in the organization’s ability to chart a successful course for the future.