Browns linked to huge trade for 78-TD new franchise QB

The Cleveland Browns have long been searching for a long-term franchise quarterback. While they had one in Baker Mayfield, they gave up on him too early and are now paying the price once again.

Kevin Stefanski and company currently have Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett and Deshaun Watson on the roster at the quarterback position. Flacco appears likely to be the Week 1 starter with Pickett as his primary backup. Watson’s tenure with the Browns is all but over.

However, there is still a belief that Cleveland will look to draft a young quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the draft just 10 days away, it won’t be long before the fans find out who that quarterback ends up being.

Many have connected the Browns to Colorado standout Shedeur Sanders. While that is the popular name, there is another name to keep a close eye on that Cleveland has again been linked to pulling off a huge trade to get.

Cleveland Browns linked to huge trade for new franchise QB

Matt Galatzan of Newsweek took a look at the three best fits for the team in the first round of the draft. He named Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe as a top candidate for the Browns to trade back into the first round to select.

“Obviously, Shedeur Sanders would be a popular choice here, but in the case that that the Browns pick Carter or Hunter, it would be easy to see them trading back into the first round to also secure that quarterback of the future,” he wrote.

“Based on what we have mostly seen, it could be unlikely that Sanders will be there. Then again, according to Albert Breer, that might not be the case. Either way, assuming Sanders isn’t there, Jalen Milroe might be. He is an exciting prospect with tremendous physical tools and very well could into the start they need with the right coaching.”

Milroe would be an intriguing addition for Cleveland. He had a rollercoaster 2024 season with the Crimson Tide, but has displayed major playmaking ability both with his arm and legs.

During the 2024 campaign, Milroe completed 64.3 percent of his pass attempts for 2,844 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He also carved up opposing defenses on the ground with 726 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Taking a flier on Milroe would be well worth the risk for the Browns. He might just be the long-term quarterback of the future if he develops to his full potential.