Quarterback Transition Needs
The Cleveland Browns are positioning themselves for a significant change at the quarterback position this offseason. With the quarterback draft expected to provide additional options in a weak class, officials also appear to be eyeing experienced veteran free agents to bolster their roster. A prominent sports reporter recently compiled a list of 26 free agents who could potentially join Cleveland, with veteran quarterbacks topping the rankings.
Veteran Additions in the Offseason
At the forefront of potential signings are Kirk Cousins and Daniel Jones. Cousins, who previously worked under Cleveland’s head coach in Minnesota, enters this season following a challenging end to 2024—a period marked by a benching in favor of a rookie, coupled with an uncharacteristically high interception count of 16. Although a trade for Cousins is a possibility, contractual complications, including a $10 million bonus vesting in mid-March, could influence his availability. If he were to be released, however, he might represent a more affordable veteran acquisition for the team.
Emergence of Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones, a top-10 draft pick in 2019, finds himself in a position where proving his capability as a consistent starter in the NFL is imperative. Following his release by the Giants and a subsequent stint with the Vikings under coach Kevin O’Connell, Jones has shown intermittent brilliance. Despite an overall erratic performance—recording 70 touchdowns against 47 interceptions and adding 15 rushing scores—he is likely eager to seize any opportunity that might reinvigorate his career and demonstrate his potential as a starting quarterback.
Additional Prospects Under Consideration
Beyond the leading duo, the list of potential quarterback reinforcements extends to include names such as Derek Carr and Geno Smith. Even further down the roster of possibilities are seasoned players like Joe Flacco and Jacoby Brissett, both of whom have prior ties to the franchise. There is also speculation about figures like Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, as changes within rival teams may open the door for additional veteran options to emerge.
In summary, as the Browns look to weave veterans into their quarterback mix alongside rookie talent, the coming days will be pivotal in shaping the direction of the team’s future at the position.