In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns made a significant strategic move by adding multiple quarterbacks to their roster, indicating a bold approach under the leadership of general manager Andrew Berry. The team selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round, positioning them as potential key players for the future. In addition to these rookies, the Browns acquired Kenny Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles through a trade and secured veteran Joe Flacco in free agency. This aggressive maneuvering comes in light of Deshaun Watson’s substantial contract, which still binds him to the team for two more years. Cleveland fans are particularly enthusiastic about Sanders, hoping he could emerge as the franchise’s long-term solution at the quarterback position, although the management’s intentions may be oriented elsewhere.
Despite the excitement surrounding the drafting of two quarterbacks, whispers of alternative plans are surfacing regarding the Browns’ long-term quarterback strategy. Reports from prominent sports analysts, including Colin Cowherd, hint at the franchise’s interest in Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning. Cowherd’s insights suggest that ownership, particularly Jimmy Haslam, is deeply connected with the Manning family and is exploring the possibility of Manning becoming the face of the franchise in the future. With strong ties to the Southeastern Conference and an inclination towards noteworthy players, Haslam’s open admiration for Manning could signal a shift in the team’s quarterback aspirations.
Moreover, Cowherd mentioned the potential influence of Nick Saban in this developing narrative. Saban’s proximity to both Haslam and the Manning family opens up intriguing possibilities for a future partnership if Manning chooses to enter the NFL draft in 2026. The notion of pairing Manning with Saban as head coach would represent a dramatic departure for the Browns, essentially sidelining Sanders as a long-term candidate and shifting focus back toward established collegiate pedigree. Such a move could redefine the team’s trajectory as they seek to solidify their quarterback position for years to come.
The uncertainty surrounding Manning’s decision to declare for the draft adds another layer of complexity to the Browns’ plans. While he remains a prominent prospect, there is no definitive timeline indicating whether he will pursue a professional career or continue developing at Texas. If the Browns indeed have aspirations to secure Manning, they will need to strategize carefully around their draft capital. Notably, the franchise recently obtained a second first-round pick for the 2026 draft by trading the rights to select Travis Hunter to the Jacksonville Jaguars, bolstering their ability to maneuver for Manning if he becomes available.
Should the Browns indeed pursue Arch Manning, it would represent a calculated risk, given their recent investments at the quarterback position. The potential changes could ignite discussions among fans and analysts alike about the future direction of the franchise. Speculation will undoubtedly intensify as the team monitors Manning’s college career and deliberates its own quarterback depth chart. Whether the Browns solidify their roster or pivot dramatically remains a topic of significant interest and debate in the football community.
In conclusion, while the Cleveland Browns have taken a bold step by drafting two quarterbacks and acquiring a mix of veteran talent, the shadow of Arch Manning looms large over their future plans. Owner Jimmy Haslam’s connections to the Manning family and potential ties to Nick Saban could shape a new era for the team, raising questions about the immediate fate of their current quarterback investments. As speculation fuels excitement around the franchise, only time will tell how their quarterback situation will evolve in the coming seasons, especially with draft opportunities on the horizon. The interplay between college football’s marquee prospects and NFL strategies remains a captivating narrative as the Browns navigate their next steps.
