NFL Draft: Mel Kiper Jr.'s Pick For The Cleveland Browns At No. 2

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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H2: Kiper's Predicted Pick for the Cleveland Browns:

Mel Kiper Jr. projects Will Anderson Jr., the edge rusher from Alabama, to the Cleveland Browns. Anderson Jr.'s explosive athleticism and proven pass-rushing ability make him a highly sought-after prospect.

• Kiper's Reasoning: Kiper highlights Anderson Jr.'s relentless motor and exceptional bend as key factors in his projection. He cites Anderson Jr.'s consistent pressure on quarterbacks throughout his college career as crucial for addressing the Browns' defensive needs. He believes Anderson Jr.'s high football IQ and ability to learn quickly will allow him to make an immediate impact.
• Comparison to Other Picks: While Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech) and Jalen Carter (Georgia) were also considered, Kiper believes Anderson Jr.'s superior pass-rushing skills and overall consistency give him the edge for a team needing an immediate impact player at the edge. The Browns need to significantly upgrade their pass rush.
• Read Kiper's Full Analysis Here: [Insert Link to Kiper's Analysis Here]

H2: Addressing the Browns' Needs:

The Browns' biggest roster weakness heading into the draft is undeniably their pass rush. Despite having some talented players, the team consistently struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2022. This lack of pressure led to many offensive success for opposing teams. Adding a dominant edge rusher is paramount to their defensive success.

• How Anderson Jr. Fills the Need: Anderson Jr.'s skill set perfectly complements the current Browns roster. His ability to consistently get to the quarterback will improve the entire defense's performance, improving the run defense and allowing the secondary more opportunities.
• Addressing Potential Weaknesses: While some analysts point to Anderson Jr.'s need to improve his run defense, the Browns' coaching staff, known for its player development, can address this. The addition of experienced defensive players around him should also alleviate some of that pressure.
• Positional Flexibility: While primarily an edge rusher, Anderson Jr.'s athleticism allows for some positional flexibility, potentially lining him up at different spots on the defensive line.

H2: Alternative Scenarios and Analysis:

Other potential choices for the Browns at #2 included Tyree Wilson and Jalen Carter. However, Kiper ultimately favors Anderson Jr. due to his proven production and high floor. Wilson’s high ceiling is tempting, but Kiper prefers the safe choice in Anderson Jr.

• Comparison to Alternatives: Anderson Jr. offers more immediate pass-rushing impact than Wilson, while Carter presents injury concerns. His consistent production over three years at Alabama gives him a clear advantage.
• Potential Trade Scenarios: A trade down is always a possibility, but the Browns' need for an edge rusher and Kiper's assessment strongly suggests they will remain at #2 and make their pick.
• Impact on Other Teams: The Browns' selection of Anderson Jr. would significantly impact other teams' draft strategies, especially those seeking an elite pass rusher. Teams further down the draft order, or those with a different need, may consider adjusting their draft boards based on this move.

3. Conclusion:

Mel Kiper Jr.'s prediction for the Cleveland Browns' No. 2 pick is Will Anderson Jr., the talented edge rusher from Alabama. The main reasons behind Kiper's choice center around Anderson Jr.'s proven pass-rushing ability, his high floor, and his excellent fit within the Browns' defensive scheme. His immediate impact should significantly bolster the Browns' pass rush and defense overall.

What do you think of Mel Kiper Jr.'s pick for the Cleveland Browns at No. 2? Share your thoughts and predictions for the Browns in the comments below! Let's discuss the NFL Draft and the Cleveland Browns' strategy. Do you agree with Kiper's assessment of Will Anderson Jr. as the ideal pick for the Browns at #2? Let the debate begin!