The Cleveland Browns’ decision to turn to Jameis Winston following Deshaun Watson’s injury reflects their continued search for consistency at the quarterback position. Watson, brought in with high expectations, has struggled with injuries, forcing the Browns to adapt and find reliable backups to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Winston, known for his strong arm and big-play potential but also his turnover tendencies, brings both risk and reward to the Browns’ offense. His experience as a starter with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later with the New Orleans Saints could be an asset for a Browns team looking to stay competitive in a tough AFC North. However, Winston’s tendency for turnovers could be a concern for Cleveland, which relies on its strong defense and run game to control tempo.
For Cleveland, Winston provides a stopgap option that could work if he can manage the game effectively, make smart decisions, and play within the Browns’ system. The team’s long-term success at the position, however, will depend on Watson’s ability to stay healthy and return to form, as well as the Browns’ potential interest in exploring more stability at quarterback in future drafts or the offseason.
The Cleveland Browns’ persistent quarterback issues have led to speculation about drafting a new signal-caller, with Alabama’s Jalen Milroe recently linked to the team in a mock draft. Given the Browns’ lack of stability at the position—highlighted by Jameis Winston becoming their 39th starting quarterback over the past 25 years—the team is once again evaluating its options for a long-term solution. Injuries to Deshaun Watson have underscored the need for a dependable backup or a possible successor, as Cleveland looks to build an offense that can consistently complement its strong defense and ground game.
Milroe, known for his athleticism and big arm, has shown significant growth in his junior season at Alabama. His dual-threat capabilities could be especially appealing to the Browns, whose recent quarterback struggles have highlighted the need for versatility and resilience at the position. With the NFL increasingly favoring quarterbacks who can extend plays and make an impact both through the air and on the ground, Milroe might offer the kind of dynamic playmaking Cleveland needs.
Drafting a young quarterback like Milroe could provide Cleveland with a promising talent to develop behind Watson, or potentially offer a competitive option should Watson’s injury issues continue.
In Chris Trapasso’s latest 2025 NFL mock draft, he projects the Cleveland Browns to select Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe with the No. 5 overall pick. Trapasso’s analysis suggests that even if the Browns hope to have Deshaun Watson back on the field next season, his recovery from a torn Achilles—a potentially year-long rehabilitation process—could complicate matters. This selection of Milroe would allow Cleveland to “stash” a high-upside quarterback, potentially giving them both a developmental prospect and a solid backup option should Watson face setbacks in his recovery.
Milroe’s athleticism, arm strength, and playmaking ability make him a particularly intriguing prospect for Cleveland. Drafting him could give the Browns flexibility in the near future, especially if Watson’s high price tag and injury concerns continue to limit his effectiveness. Given Cleveland’s history of quarterback turnover and its difficulty finding a long-term answer at the position, investing in a talented young quarterback like Milroe could provide stability and an option to either support or eventually replace Watson, depending on how the next season unfolds.
