With a 3-12 record and two games left, the Cleveland Browns’ disappointing 2024 season is nearing its end. As the team looks ahead to a likely top-five pick in the draft, attention is shifting to the future and potential roster changes for 2025.
Assuming general manager Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski remain in their roles, here’s an early evaluation of the offensive roster and the likelihood of each player returning next season. This analysis considers player performance, contract situations, and the team’s direction.
Quarterbacks
Deshaun Watson: High
Watson’s return seems certain, barring an unexpected trade or release.
Jameis Winston: Low
As an unrestricted free agent, Winston is unlikely to stay.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson:Medium
The team may give the young QB another chance as a developmental option.
Bailey Zappe:Low
Unlikely to be retained given the team’s need for stronger depth at QB.
Running Backs
Nick Chubb: Medium
Chubb may return on a team-friendly deal, though the Browns are likely to draft a new running back.
Jerome Ford: High
Ford has shown potential and is expected to remain a key part of the offense.
Pierre Strong:Low
Limited impact makes his return unlikely.
D’Onta Foreman:Low
oreman’s tenure in Cleveland appears to be nearing its end.
Wide Receivers
– Jerry Jeudy: Definitely
A cornerstone of the receiving corps moving forward.
– Cedrick Tillman:Definitely
Another lock for next season given his development potential.
-Elijah Moore: Low
Struggles with consistency could lead to his departure.
-David Bell:Medium
A developmental player who might stay if he shows growth.
– Jamari Thrash:High
Has shown promise and should remain a key part of the group.
– Mike Woods:Low
Unlikely to see another season with the team.
– James Proche: Low
Minimal impact reduces his chances of returning.
Tight Ends
– **David Njoku:** Definitely
A core offensive player and key contributor.
– **Jordan Akins:** Low
Unlikely to stay given the team’s likely focus on drafting a new tight end.
– **Blake Whiteheart:** Low
Minimal role makes his return doubtful.
– **Brenden Bates:** Low
A developmental player with limited chances of sticking around.
Offensive Line
– **Dawand Jones:** Definitely
Emerging as a reliable piece of the O-line.
– **Jed Wills:** Low
Struggles with performance may lead to his departure.
– **Joel Bitonio:** Medium
A veteran considering retirement; his future is uncertain.
– **Ethan Pocic:** Medium
Could return but isn’t guaranteed given potential cap considerations.
– **Wyatt Teller:** High
A likely starter next season despite his contract cost.
– **Jack Conklin:** High
Expected to return unless financial constraints force a move.
– **German Ifedi:** Low
Limited impact makes his return unlikely.
– **Luke Wypler:** Definitely
A young player who is part of the team’s future plans.
– **Zak Zinter:** Definitely
Expected to remain a key part of the roster.
– **Michael Dunn:** Low
A depth piece unlikely to stay.
– **Geron Christian:** Low
Minimal role on the team reduces his chances of returning.
### Looking Ahead
The Browns will likely prioritize adding young talent, particularly at key offensive positions such as tight end and offensive line. While veterans like Bitonio and Chubb may still have a role, expect the team to make tough decisions to position themselves for long-term success.
The defensive roster will undergo a similar evaluation in the coming days.
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