Most analysts agree that the most talented prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft is either Colorado Buffaloes’ Travis Hunter or Penn State’s Abdul Carter. Hunter is a unique two-way talent that is rarely seen. While playing for Deion Sanders, he played both cornerback and wide receiver, displaying remarkable instincts on both sides of the ball.
On the flip side of that argument is Carter, an electrifying EDGE rusher who will demand special attention from every opponent. He is frequently compared to Micah Parsons and T.J. Watt and is expected to be a one-man wrecking machine.
However, the NFL Draft is dictated by need, not always by the “best player available,” which is why neither of those two elite talents is expected to go first overall. It appears that the honor will go to Cam Ward, quarterback from Miami.
Draft Expert Expects The Browns To Pass On Abdul Carter
If the Tennessee Titans select Ward with the first pick, that leaves the Cleveland Browns with many options for the second overall selection. The Browns need to find a franchise quarterback, so some analysts expect them to take Shedeur Sanders, but others think they will look to draft a more certain thing.
That’s what Mel Kiper Jr., the godfather of mock drafts, thinks they will do. In his most recent two-round mock draft for ESPN+, Kiper made a surprising prediction for the Browns.
“I debated Hunter vs. Penn State’s Abdul Carter for Cleveland. There’s no doubt that slotting Carter opposite Myles Garrett would destroy opponent game plans. But Hunter is a special prospect in so many ways, and he’d check a big box for the Browns — mainly as a receiver. They have wideout Jerry Jeudy and tight end David Njoku but need more pass-catching talent.
Hunter — my No. 1 overall prospect — has a “wow” factor to his game, and he could use his speed, ball skills, instincts and elusiveness to become an impact player right out of the gate. He had 96 catches for 1,258 yards and 15 TDs last season.
But there’s also the defensive impact of taking Hunter. Cleveland already has playmakers at cornerback in Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II, but it could still use Hunter in big spots. Have to make a stop at the end of the half? I’d have him on the field. Drafting Hunter and getting him in the mix on both sides of the ball could really energize this fan base.”
Browns fans could undoubtedly use some energizing. The ever-loyal fan base has suffered heartbreak after heartbreak over the years as the team has failed to sustain success. Hunter could certainly check that excitement box for them and help to bring a spark back to the team in whatever way they use him.
PFSN’s most recent mock draft envisioned this going the opposite way, having the Browns select Carter over Hunter. They note that Carter, who they call a “blue chip player” who is almost unblockable, and Myles Garrett would give the Browns a true defensive identity.