As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the rumor mill is swirling with reports of bold trades, shocking decisions, and franchise-altering moves. Among the most significant headlines in this year’s mock draft is the New York Jets’ aggressive move to trade up for a quarterback to eventually succeed veteran Aaron Rodgers, while the Cleveland Browns look to pivot away from a struggling Deshaun Watson, possibly taking another swing at landing a franchise quarterback.

Jets’ Gamble: The Future Beyond Rodgers

After acquiring Aaron Rodgers in a blockbuster trade from the Green Bay Packers in 2023, the New York Jets believed they had found their short-term answer at quarterback. Rodgers, even at 41, has shown flashes of brilliance and the leadership that once made him a perennial MVP candidate. However, despite his presence, the Jets are cognizant that his time in the league is limited, and the 2025 season may very well be his final campaign.

In anticipation of Rodgers’ eventual retirement, the Jets are reportedly trading up in the draft to secure one of the top quarterback prospects. This move highlights the franchise’s commitment to ensuring long-term stability at the most important position in football. With the draft expected to feature a deep quarterback class, the Jets’ front office, led by general manager Joe Douglas, is not taking any chances. Trading into the top five, the Jets are positioning themselves to select a quarterback who can learn under Rodgers for a season or two before taking the reins.

Among the candidates the Jets are rumored to be targeting are USC’s Caleb Williams and North Carolina’s Drake Maye, both of whom are projected to be high first-round picks. Williams, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, is widely regarded as a generational talent, drawing comparisons to Patrick Mahomes for his ability to extend plays and make jaw-dropping throws. Maye, on the other hand, is a polished pocket passer with elite football IQ and accuracy, reminiscent of Justin Herbert.

By trading up, the Jets are signaling that they are looking beyond the Rodgers era. For a franchise that has long struggled to find consistent quarterback play, this move could set them up for a bright future.

Browns’ Search for a Watson Replacement

The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a tough spot, having bet heavily on Deshaun Watson in 2022 with a massive, fully guaranteed $230 million contract after trading multiple first-round picks to acquire him. The hope was that Watson would return to the form that made him a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback in Houston. However, after two seasons of underwhelming performances and struggles to adapt to head coach Kevin Stefanski’s system, Watson has failed to live up to the hefty price tag.

In this year’s mock draft, the Browns are projected to make a bold move of their own, trading up in the first round to secure a quarterback who can finally solve their long-standing quarterback dilemma. Watson’s inconsistent play has led to growing frustration within the organization and fan base, and despite the enormous financial commitment, the Browns are reportedly exploring their options to move on from him.

Some reports suggest the Browns may be willing to take on dead cap space or restructure Watson’s contract to facilitate a trade, though it remains a tricky situation given the guaranteed money involved. Nevertheless, the team is eyeing top quarterback prospects to potentially build around, with a fresh start becoming more appealing by the day.

The Browns’ top targets include Oregon’s Bo Nix and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, both of whom have enjoyed successful collegiate careers. Nix, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, has impressed scouts with his mobility, arm strength, and leadership qualities. McCarthy, a local favorite hailing from Michigan, has displayed poise under pressure and has a strong arm to fit Stefanski’s downfield passing attack.

Cleveland’s decision to move on from Watson would mark the end of a controversial era, but it could also offer a chance at redemption for a franchise that has been searching for its next great quarterback since the days of Bernie Kosar. With a new quarterback, the Browns hope to reset their timeline and make a push in the highly competitive AFC North.

Draft Day Drama: Potential Fallout

The decision by both the Jets and Browns to trade up for quarterbacks could have a ripple effect throughout the league. Teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, and even the New England Patriots may be looking to move up as well, further intensifying the drama surrounding draft night.

For the Jets, the gamble on trading up comes with high stakes, especially if the quarterback they select fails to live up to expectations. The pressure will be on to find the right heir apparent to Rodgers, and while learning behind a future Hall of Famer is valuable, the Jets cannot afford to miss.

Meanwhile, the Browns’ decision to part ways with Watson could become one of the most talked-about moves in NFL history, particularly given the magnitude of his contract. If Watson finds success elsewhere, Cleveland may face scrutiny for how they handled the situation. However, if Watson continues to struggle, the Browns could be praised for making a difficult but necessary decision to move on and correct their course.

As the 2025 NFL Draft inches closer, all eyes will be on the Jets and Browns as they potentially make franchise-altering decisions. With both teams seeking to secure their quarterback of the future, draft night promises to be one of the most dramatic in recent memory.

The stakes are high, and only time will tell if these gambles will pay off.