NFL rumors fly every offseason, but some have more weight than others. Last year, everyone expected Derrick Henry to land in Buffalo, but he chose Baltimore instead. When fans assumed Davante Adams would stick with Aaron Rodgers, he surprised everyone by heading to Las Vegas. And now, Myles Garrett is bringing a free agent coming home. But who? 

For years, Myles Garrett has been the heart of the Cleveland Browns’ defense. He is a dominant force on the field and a leader in the locker room. But this offseason, he’s playing recruiter, too. Reports suggest Garrett is actively working behind the scenes to bring back a familiar face, Nick Chubb. The star RB, coming off a tough injury, is a free agent, and while the Chicago Bears are reportedly interested, Garrett is making a strong push to reunite him with the Browns. If this happens, it would be a massive move for Cleveland’s offense and locker room.

Myles Garrett’s own future with the Cleveland Browns was uncertain at the end of last year. Frustrated with the team’s struggles, he openly expressed his desire to compete for a Super Bowl rather than endure another rebuild. Reports suggested Garrett was seeking a trade, with potential landing spots like the Philadelphia Eagles emerging as serious contenders. However, the Browns remained firm, refusing to entertain trade offers despite Garrett’s dissatisfaction. The turning point came when Cleveland offered a historic contract extension, making him (for a brief while) the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal, worth $160 million over four years, averages $40 million per year and includes $123.5 million guaranteed. Garrett’s new deal keeps him with the Browns for the next six seasons at $204.79 million, and he cannot be traded.

This extension not only secures Garrett’s financial future but also solidifies his commitment to the franchise, despite previous frustrations. His agent, Nicole Lynn, stated that after intense negotiations, Garrett had a “change of heart” and is now focused on leading Cleveland to a championship. Despite the payday, fans have criticized Garrett for prioritizing money over winning, especially given the Browns’ ongoing quarterback uncertainty. Some believe he passed up a real chance to compete for a title elsewhere. Nonetheless, with his long-term future now secured, Garrett will have to hope Cleveland can build a legitimate contender around him before his championship window closes. Looks like he may be taking matters into his own hands by trying to convince Nick Chubb to re-sign.

While much of the offseason buzz is around free agency, some reports are emerging over the Browns’ decision at No. 2 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Browns’ No. 2 pick discussion

Many assumed Cleveland would target a dominant QB, a disruptive pass rusher, or a versatile defensive playmaker. However, recent reports suggest the Browns are now more likely to go defense. Penn State’s Abdul Carter is fast emerging as the favorite at No. 2.

This shift seems surprising. With major QB issues stemming from Deshaun Watson’s injury and financial commitments, some expected the Browns to make it a priority position in the Draft. They have long been linked to Miami QB Cam Ward and Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders. But Sanders’ draft stock has slipped since the Scouting Combine, making him a risk at No. 2. So, if the Titans take Ward at No. 1, Cleveland may prioritize strengthening its D-line over taking a punt on a QB.

There’s another factor which is strengthening the defense. Cleveland has built one of the NFL’s most aggressive defenses, and adding a versatile pass rusher like Carter could turn them into an elite unit. The Browns saw how injuries and inconsistency on defense hurt them late in the season, and reinforcing the front seven could be the best path toward true Super Bowl contention.

The 2025 draft class offers several high-upside defenders. Abdul Carter is an explosive edge rusher with elite athleticism, and scouts believe he could thrive playing next to Garrett. Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter (CB/WR) remains an outside option, as he brings game-breaking ability on both sides of the ball. However, taking him at No. 2 might be too indulgent, given Cleveland’s more pressing needs.

Former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum recently weighed in, saying, “If the Browns believe in Abdul Carter’s upside, they have to take him. You don’t get many chances to pair an elite pass rusher with a Hall of Fame-caliber player like Myles Garrett.” Meanwhile, Browns legend Joe Thomas had a different take: “Cleveland has waited too long to get this close. They need to go all-in on a playmaker who can help them win now.”

With the draft just weeks away, all eyes are on Cleveland. Will they add a future defensive star or make a surprise move for a quarterback? Either way, their No. 2 pick could go a long way towards defining their 2025 season.