Kenny Pickett Joins Browns in Trade, Eyes Starting QB Role

The Browns acquired Pickett from the Eagles, with the quarterback expressing optimism about competing for the starting job in Cleveland.

The Cleveland Browns traded a fifth-round pick and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for Kenny Pickett.
Pickett, a first-round draft pick in 2022, has prior starting experience with the Steelers and served as a backup for the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team last season.
Currently the only healthy quarterback on the Browns' roster, Pickett is expected to compete for the starting job, though the team may still bring in additional quarterbacks, including veterans or rookies.
Deshaun Watson is recovering from a torn Achilles and is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season, leaving a potential opening for Pickett to contribute.
The Browns hold the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, raising speculation they may select a quarterback to compete with Pickett for the starting role.