Browns’ Draft Plans Exposed: Stefanski Hints at Surprising Pick at 33 After Top Target Snatched Away
The Cleveland Browns are on the clock early in Day 2 of the NFL Draft, but the team’s original plan may have been thrown off course. After top cornerback prospect Terrion Arnold was unexpectedly taken off the board late in the first round, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski dropped a subtle but telling hint about what the team might do with pick No. 33 — and fans are buzzing.
Speaking to reporters late Thursday night, Stefanski didn’t name names, but he certainly opened the door just wide enough to let some speculation creep through.
“We had a few guys we were really excited about potentially being there at 33,” Stefanski said. “But that’s the nature of the draft — things shift quickly. The good news is, we still feel great about the board and there are a couple impact players we didn’t think would be here.”
While many insiders had connected the Browns to a defensive back with their top pick, sources inside the building suggest the team may pivot to the trenches or look to add a dynamic weapon on offense. One name gathering steam is Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, a big-bodied, explosive target who could immediately boost Deshaun Watson’s arsenal.
Another potential option? Michigan linebacker Junior Colson, who fits perfectly with defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s aggressive, downhill style. Colson’s leadership and football IQ could make him an instant contributor on a unit already stacked with talent.
With no first-round pick due to the Deshaun Watson trade, this No. 33 selection carries enormous weight for GM Andrew Berry and Stefanski. The Browns are in win-now mode, and they need a player who can produce from Day 1.
Stefanski didn’t confirm who the Browns would select — obviously — but his tone suggested that the team might be leaning toward a prospect who slid out of Round 1 unexpectedly.
“Sometimes, Day 2 gives you first-round talent,” he said with a slight grin. “We’ll be ready.”
One thing is clear: the Browns are at a crossroads. With the draft board reshuffling overnight, all eyes are on Cleveland to make a splash early Friday evening.
Stay tuned — the Browns might be cooking up something big.
