The Cleveland Browns are coming off a nightmare season, finishing with a record of 3-14, their worst since the infamous 0-16 campaign in 2017. Injuries, inconsistent quarterback play, and a struggling defense combined for a disastrous year, leaving the Browns searching for answers in the offseason.
With the recent trade request from Myles Garrett and the non-stop questions about whether they’ll get a new quarterback, the 2025 NFL Draft offers a chance to rebuild and reload for a team that desperately needs it.
According to PFSN’s latest seven-round 2025 NFL mock draft, Cleveland could use the 33rd overall pick to land a dynamic offensive weapon capable of jumpstarting its struggling ground game.
Browns Projected To Draft Omarion Hampton as Nick Chubb’s Successor
DeLeone predicts that the Browns will likely look to fill the void left by Nick Chubb by selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton. Known for his bruising style and game-changing ability, Hampton has all the makings of a future NFL workhorse.
“It’s time for the Browns to search for a new lead back. Omarion Hampton possesses every quality that an NFL team seeks in a workhorse running back. His combination of power, physicality, and speed will make him one of the most productive rookie running backs in 2025.”
At 6’0” and built for contact, Hampton’s mix of raw power and surprising breakaway speed helped him rack up 40 touchdowns in three college seasons (two as a starter). His ability to break tackles, push through defenders, and extend plays would immediately inject life into Cleveland’s offense. With Chubb’s future in Cleveland uncertain, Hampton could be the fresh start the Browns’ backfield desperately needs.
More Than Just a Running Back Issue: Cleveland’s Draft Priorities
While adding a dynamic runner like Hampton would be a major win, the Browns have multiple roster holes to address. Their biggest needs include getting an edge rusher, quarterback, offensive tackle, and wide receiver. If Garrett’s trade request is granted — a move that would leave Cleveland’s already thin pass rush in dire straits — finding a capable edge rusher would become priority No. 1.
That’s where the Browns’ No. 2 overall pick could come into play. DeLeone projects Cleveland to target Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter, who has the versatility to play as a pass-rushing linebacker or a pure edge defender. Carter’s explosiveness and high motor could help fill the void left by Garrett and give Cleveland a defensive cornerstone to build around.
GET DRAFTING: Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator With Trades
Drafting Hampton would give the offense a much-needed spark and provide a reliable ground game for whoever lines up under center next season. At the same time, selecting a top-tier defender like Carter would help stabilize a shaky defense.
If Cleveland can hit on these two key draft picks, they might finally begin climbing out of their slump and laying the groundwork for a brighter future.
