As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Cleveland Browns hold the No. 2 overall pick, a key opportunity to shape their future. Despite recent mixed results, the team has invested heavily in both offense and defense, and this pick could be a game-changer for their roster.
The Browns face a big decision: stay at No. 2 or trade down. By moving down, Cleveland could gain more draft capital and address multiple team needs, including secondary and linebacker help, while securing a high-quality player later.
Sitting at No. 8, the Panthers are focusing on bolstering their pass rush. The defense, while solid, requires an upgrade to disrupt opposing offenses, making a defensive playmaker a priority in the 2025 draft.
One name topping Carolina’s draft board is Abdul Carter, a standout pass-rusher from Penn State. With the Panthers’ need for a dominant defender, Carter’s ability to pressure quarterbacks makes him an ideal fit for their defense.
The Panthers have reportedly offered the No. 8 pick, a third-round pick, a 2026 first-round pick, and tight end James Mitchell in exchange for the No. 2 pick and a fourth-round pick. Carolina’s goal is to secure Carter, while Cleveland could acquire multiple future assets to strengthen their roster.
Trading down makes sense for the Browns, as they can still land a top-tier player while acquiring additional picks. Cleveland could address key needs in the secondary, linebacker, and offensive line, all while gaining more draft flexibility for the future.
Moving up six spots is costly, and the Panthers would give up significant future assets. The risk is that if Carter (or another desired player) doesn’t pan out, they might regret sacrificing future capital.
The Panthers could stay at No. 8 and still select an impactful player. While Carter may be the primary target, there are other solid defensive options available. Staying put allows Carolina to keep future draft assets and continue building for the long term.
Trade-ups are high-risk, high-reward maneuvers. The Panthers must weigh the chance of landing Carter against the risk of overpaying and losing future draft picks. Additionally, teams picking ahead of Carolina could also target Carter, increasing the urgency for a trade.
If the trade goes through, the Browns would benefit from additional picks and a young player in Mitchell, further enhancing their roster. For the Panthers, a successful trade-up would signal a commitment to a more aggressive, win-now approach centered on landing a top pass-rusher.
Trade-ups and trade-downs have become common in the NFL draft, as teams look to align with their organizational goals. The Browns and Panthers’ potential trade illustrates how teams are willing to move up or down to secure the players they believe will make the biggest impact.
As the 2025 NFL Draft nears, both the Browns and Panthers face critical decisions. Whether or not they pull the trigger on a trade, how they navigate the draft will greatly influence the trajectory of their respective teams in the coming seasons.