The Cleveland Browns finished the 2024 NFL season with a disappointing 3-14 record, securing the No. 2 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Expectations were sky-high for the Browns just a year ago, but the team now finds itself back at square one. Even players like Myles Garrett have described the 2024 season as more disappointing than the infamous 0-16 season in 2017. However, all hope is not lost. The Browns have an opportunity to ace the offseason and get back on track. Can they do it? That remains to be seen, but today, I’ll outline what a perfect—yet realistic—offseason for the Cleveland Browns could look like.

HIRE KLINT KUBIAK AS OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

The Browns need to return to what worked for them before the disastrous 2024 season: Kevin Stefanski’s offensive scheme. Stefanski’s system has roots in Gary Kubiak’s offense, and Klint Kubiak—Gary’s son—is a natural fit. Klint is part of the same coaching tree as Stefanski and currently serves as the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. However, with the Saints searching for a new head coach after firing Dennis Allen in November, a full coaching staff overhaul is likely. This presents a perfect opportunity for the Browns to hire Klint Kubiak. His youth and familiarity with the Stefanski system make him the ideal candidate to revitalize Cleveland’s offense.

REVAMP THE QUARTERBACK ROOM

The Browns do not currently have a franchise quarterback. With Deshaun Watson likely sidelined for the year and Dorian Thompson-Robinson struggling in late 2024, it’s time for a complete overhaul of the quarterback room. The Browns should consider adding three new quarterbacks.

One potential target is Kirk Cousins, who had a rough 2024 but previously thrived under Stefanski during their time with the Minnesota Vikings. Another intriguing option is Kyle Trask, a former second-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2021. Trask has seen limited playing time but possesses the physical traits to excel in Stefanski’s play-action-heavy offense.

In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns should avoid using their high picks on a quarterback, as there isn’t a clear franchise-caliber option. Instead, they can take a late-round flyer on prospects like Will Howard or Dillon Gabriel. Regardless of the exact approach, Cleveland must revamp its quarterback room to lay the foundation for future success.

FREE-AGENCY

The Browns have consistently demonstrated their ability to manipulate the salary cap, so fans should expect them to be active in free agency. While it’s difficult to predict specific targets without knowing their cap situation, the Browns should prioritize two areas: wide receiver and offensive line depth, particularly at tackle.

Additionally, Cleveland should consider re-signing Nick Chubb. Although Chubb has endured significant injuries over the past two seasons and may not be the same dominant player, bringing him back would show loyalty to a fan favorite and a respected team leader. Moves like this can send a powerful message to both the locker room and prospective free agents that the Browns value their players.

2025 NFL DRAFT

When it comes to the draft, the Browns should explore trading their No. 2 overall pick to a quarterback-needy team, such as the Raiders or Giants, in exchange for multiple draft assets, including a first-round pick in 2026. This strategy would allow Cleveland to stockpile picks and remain flexible for future drafts.

After trading down, the Browns should adopt a “best player available” approach, focusing on adding high-impact talent regardless of position. Additionally, this year’s draft class is deep at running back, so Cleveland should aim to draft a promising back to pair with Nick Chubb, in the 2nd or 3rd round.

If the Browns follow this plan, they can position themselves for a successful “gap year” in 2025—remaining competitive while continuing to build their roster. This approach sets the stage for Cleveland to select their franchise quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft, armed with multiple picks from their 2025 trade-down. While this strategy may not be glamorous, it offers the Browns a clear and methodical path to return to contention sooner rather than later. By focusing on stability and strategic roster-building, the team can create a sustainable foundation for future success.