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

Viktoria Ivanova

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Post on May 31, 2025

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Kiper Jr.'s Projected Player for the Browns' No. 2 Pick: Will Anderson Jr.

Mel Kiper Jr. has projected that the Cleveland Browns will select Will Anderson Jr. with the second overall pick. Anderson, a standout edge rusher from the University of Alabama, boasts an impressive college career that has solidified his status as a top draft prospect.

• Position: Edge Rusher
• College Team: Alabama Crimson Tide
• Key Stats: 34.5 sacks, 58.5 tackles for loss in three seasons.
• Playing Style and Strengths: Anderson is known for his relentless pursuit of the quarterback, exceptional speed off the edge, and powerful bull rush. He's a versatile defender who can play in various schemes.
• Potential Weaknesses and Areas for Improvement: While incredibly talented, some analysts point to the need for Anderson to further develop his pass coverage skills.

Anderson's dominance in the SEC speaks for itself. His consistent production and high-level athleticism make him an attractive asset for any team looking to bolster its pass rush. Kiper’s assessment highlights Anderson's potential to immediately become a game-changer in the NFL.

Why Kiper Jr. Thinks This Player Fits the Browns

Kiper Jr.'s rationale centers on the Browns’ need for a dominant pass rusher. The team's defense, while improving, hasn't consistently generated enough pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Anderson's explosive athleticism and proven ability to get to the quarterback directly address this critical need.

• Cleveland Browns Roster Needs: A premier pass rusher is a top priority for the Browns to elevate their defense to the next level.
• Scheme Fit: Anderson's versatility allows him to thrive in various defensive schemes, making him a seamless addition to the Browns' system.
• Positional Value: Edge rushers are highly valued in the NFL, and Anderson is considered one of the best in this year's draft class.

The fit transcends simply filling a positional need; Anderson represents an investment in a game-changing talent who can significantly improve the Browns' win probability. Kiper emphasizes the immediate impact Anderson can make, potentially transforming the team’s defensive capabilities.

Alternative Scenarios and Other Potential Picks

While Will Anderson Jr. is Kiper Jr.'s top prediction, other talented players, such as Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech) and Jalen Carter (Georgia), have been discussed as potential selections for the Browns. These players possess impressive skill sets but may not perfectly align with Kiper’s assessment of the Browns’ most pressing need.

• Tyree Wilson: Possesses exceptional size and length, but may require more time to develop into a consistent pass rusher.
• Jalen Carter: A disruptive interior defensive lineman with elite athleticism, but questions about character and off-field concerns may factor into the Browns’ decision.

Kiper likely favors Anderson due to his proven track record of consistent production and his immediate impact potential. The alternatives present intriguing options, but Anderson’s relative certainty and defensive impact are likely the decisive factors in Kiper’s prediction. The possibility of a draft day surprise, however, always remains.

Mel Kiper Jr.'s Cleveland Browns Draft Prediction – The Verdict

In conclusion, Mel Kiper Jr. projects Will Anderson Jr. as the Cleveland Browns' No. 2 pick in the NFL Draft, citing his exceptional pass-rushing abilities and immediate impact potential as key reasons. This selection would directly address a significant team need and could elevate the Browns’ defense considerably. The overall excitement surrounding the NFL Draft is immense, and this pick will undoubtedly shape the Browns' season and beyond.

What are your thoughts on Mel Kiper Jr.'s prediction for the Cleveland Browns' No. 2 pick? Who do you think the Cleveland Browns should select, and why? Share your NFL Draft predictions in the comments below!