As the NFL draft approaches, excitement is building, especially for Cleveland Browns fans. While the Titans hold the coveted first pick—no surprise there—it’s Cleveland’s decision at number two that could shake up the league. This draft signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Browns, who haven’t made a first-round selection since 2021.

The tumultuous Deshaun Watson saga has overshadowed Cleveland’s recent years. Acquired in a blockbuster deal that cost them three first-round picks, Watson’s performance—and injuries—have prompted the organization to reconsider their strategy. Owner Jimmy Haslam recently acknowledged the costly miscalculation, recognizing the need to dig out of the hole created by the Watson trade.

Haslam stated, "We took a big swing and miss with Deshaun... We thought we had the quarterback; we didn’t... So we’ve got to dig ourselves out of that hole." With a staggering $92 million guaranteed to Watson over the next two seasons, the Browns appear ready to pivot rather than continue pouring resources into a sinking ship.

This year's draft provides an opportunity for a fresh start. General Manager Andrew Berry has emphasized focusing on adding solid talent rather than becoming overly fixated on the quarterback position. This mindset might reflect Cleveland’s effort to build a more balanced team moving forward.

Rumors are swirling about potential quarterback interests, including a failed attempt to trade up for Tennessee’s standout Cam Ward. Additionally, the Browns are still eyeing top quarterback prospect Shedeur Sanders from Colorado—someone perceived as a much better fit in Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski’s system.

However, the buzz is really around Travis Hunter, a dynamic two-way talent drawing comparisons to MLB sensation Shohei Ohtani. Berry has sung his praises, noting Hunter's unique ability to excel on both offense and defense. Choosing Hunter could inject vital energy into an offense that desperately needs rejuvenation.

While they could still address the quarterback situation later in the draft, selecting Hunter would signal a significant shift towards cultivating raw, explosive talent. If the Browns decide to trade their pick, it might illustrate a strategic retreat aimed at accumulating more draft capital after their previous losses.

One way or another, the Browns' selection will have wide-reaching implications. Whether it's Hunter or a later pick for a quarterback, this draft could define Cleveland’s future as they look to emerge from the long shadow cast by the Watson deal. It’s a crucial moment for a franchise eager to rewrite its narrative—and the eyes of the football world will be firmly fixed on them come draft day.