Browns Rookie QB Predicted to End Up as Starter in 2025: A New Era Begins in Cleveland
June 16, 2025 | Cleveland, Ohio – The Cleveland Browns find themselves at a potential turning point in their franchise’s long and storied, yet often turbulent, history. A bold prediction is sending ripples through the NFL community: the Browns’ rookie quarterback, who was just drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, is now widely expected to end up as the team’s starting quarterback during the upcoming season.
While Cleveland has seen its fair share of quarterbacks come and go—some highly hyped, others under-the-radar—the buzz surrounding this year’s draft pick feels different. NFL insiders, coaches, and even some within the Browns’ organization are already murmuring that the rookie could seize the starting job before the end of training camp, ushering in what could be a new era of hope for the long-suffering franchise.
The Draft Day Shock and the Rise of a Young Star
When the Browns selected their rookie quarterback—[Insert name, for example purposes let’s call him “Jaxon Ward”]—with the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, some fans were surprised. With veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson still on the roster and a significant amount of cap space committed to him, many expected the Browns to focus on offensive line depth, a premier wide receiver, or defensive reinforcements.
Instead, Cleveland’s front office, led by GM Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski, opted to take Ward, a Heisman Trophy finalist out of the University of Oregon. At 6’4” and 215 pounds, Ward combines elite athleticism, a cannon arm, and calm pocket presence—traits that many scouts compared to Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills.
“Jaxon was the highest-rated player on our board at that pick,” Berry said post-draft. “We believe in investing in the most important position on the field. We’re excited about his future in Cleveland.”
Despite the initial skepticism, Ward’s performance throughout rookie minicamp and OTAs has quickly silenced critics. Reports from camp indicate that Ward is already outplaying expectations. His ability to process NFL-level defenses, lead the huddle with authority, and deliver pinpoint passes—especially on the move—has caught the attention of players and coaches alike.
Deshaun Watson’s Uncertain Future
Much of the conversation around Ward’s potential ascension to starting quarterback revolves around Deshaun Watson’s tumultuous tenure in Cleveland. Since arriving via blockbuster trade from the Houston Texans in 2022, Watson has failed to return to his Pro Bowl form. Inconsistent performances, injuries, and lingering questions about off-the-field issues have shadowed his time with the Browns.
Watson’s 2024 season was marred by a shoulder injury that sidelined him for nearly half the season. Even when on the field, he struggled to maintain consistency, throwing for just 2,750 yards with 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Cleveland’s offense stagnated as a result, finishing 22nd in total yards and 25th in scoring.
With Watson turning 30 in September and carrying a massive cap hit, the Browns now face an awkward situation. If Ward continues his trajectory upward, the coaching staff may have no choice but to bench their expensive veteran in favor of a dynamic young prospect with a higher ceiling and growing locker room support.
NFL analyst Ian Rapoport stated on a recent segment:
“There’s a very real chance Ward wins the job. He’s not just a developmental guy. He looks ready. The Browns would be doing the team a disservice if they didn’t strongly consider starting him Week 1.”
Inside the Locker Room: Players Rally Around the Rookie
Another key factor in the rookie’s rising stock is the response from within the Browns’ locker room. Veteran teammates, including star running back Nick Chubb and wideout Amari Cooper, have openly praised Ward’s work ethic, leadership, and poise under pressure.
“Jaxon’s got that ‘it’ factor,” said Cooper. “He doesn’t play like a rookie. He studies like a vet. He asks the right questions, he’s humble, and he’s hungry. That’s the kind of guy you want leading your offense.”
Multiple offensive linemen have also noted Ward’s quick command of the playbook and communication skills, citing his leadership during offseason team activities as “impressive” and “beyond his years.”
An anonymous Browns defensive back added, “We try to confuse him in practice, throw different looks, blitz from unexpected angles, but he stays composed. That’s scary for a rookie. That’s a sign.”
Coaching Staff’s Dilemma: Safe Veteran or Bold Future?
For Kevin Stefanski, the decision ahead is monumental. Entering a critical year in his tenure as Browns head coach, Stefanski must weigh the risks and rewards of starting a rookie quarterback in a highly competitive AFC North division.
The Browns’ schedule for 2025 isn’t forgiving, featuring early matchups against top-tier defenses like the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. A misstep in quarterback selection could mean an early hole in the standings—and possibly the end of Stefanski’s time in Cleveland.
But the upside of a strong rookie campaign could be transformational. A successful season with Ward under center would not only rejuvenate the fan base but could redefine the franchise’s identity for the next decade.
“If Ward wins the job and performs, we’re talking about a potential long-term starter on a rookie contract,” said former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky. “That opens up so many opportunities to build a complete team around him. That’s how you win in today’s NFL.”
Fanbase Reacts: Hope, Hype, and Cautious Optimism
Browns fans are no strangers to quarterback controversies. The team has cycled through over 30 different starting quarterbacks since returning to the league in 1999. From Tim Couch to Baker Mayfield, each new prospect arrived with hope and left with disappointment.
But the narrative around Jaxon Ward feels different. Fan forums, local radio shows, and social media platforms are buzzing with excitement.
One lifelong Browns supporter commented,
“I’ve been burned too many times before. But man, this kid gives me reason to believe again. He just looks like a winner.”
Ward’s jersey sales have skyrocketed in Cleveland since the start of OTAs, surpassing even established stars on the roster. His charisma and approachable demeanor off the field—paired with electric highlights on it—are quickly turning him into a fan favorite.
What’s Next: Training Camp Showdown
The Browns’ quarterback battle is now one of the most anticipated storylines heading into 2025 NFL training camp. While Stefanski and his staff remain publicly non-committal, insiders suggest that the competition is wide open and that the rookie will get first-team reps starting in July.
Both Watson and Ward are expected to share equal time during preseason games, with the coaching staff evaluating not just performance, but chemistry, game management, and leadership under pressure.
Should Ward win the job, Cleveland’s Week 1 game could mark a new beginning for a franchise desperate for stability at the most important position on the field.
Conclusion: The Dawg Pound Waits
Cleveland has long waited for a quarterback who could deliver sustained success, energize the fan base, and bring postseason relevance to the Browns. Jaxon Ward may just be that quarterback.
While predictions in the NFL are often premature and fraught with uncertainty, the early signs suggest the Browns’ rookie quarterback is not only ready to challenge for the starting job—he might just win it.
One thing is clear: whether or not Ward is under center when the Browns take the field in Week 1, the future of Cleveland football suddenly feels brighter than it has in years.
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