Browns select UCLA's Schwesinger to begin 2nd round

The Cleveland Browns selected UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, 33rd overall.

Schwesinger started 12 games for the Bruins last season and was considered one of the top linebackers in the draft. He becomes the second defensive player selected by the Browns, who took Mason Graham fifth overall.

Pre-draft profile

Schwesinger might be the ideal modern linebacker. The UCLA product is an excellent athlete with the fluidity and coverage instincts to be a real plus contributor in the passing game. His physical gifts were also put to use as a blitzer from the second level, as he finished the 2024 season with 4.5 sacks. Schwesinger isn't the most physical presence at the position, so he likely won't be the kind of player to stack against opposing offensive linemen. He still finds a way to make it work in the run game, though, making good reads and using his agility to navigate confined spaces and work around blocks. Tackling isn't an issue, either, as he consistently wraps up the ball-carrier with good technique. Schwesinger has a chance to be an impact pro who plays every down.