Browns’ proposed NFL rules on future draft picks in trades draw scrutiny
NEWNow you can listen to News articles!
While a possible ban on butt thrusting was discussed last season, this year the Cleveland Browns have proposed the most notable rule change.
The proposal seeks to allow NFL teams to reach deals that would involve draft picks up to five years in advance. Current league policy only allows teams to trade picks for up to three years.
NFL owners will consider the Browns’ proposal and a separate proposal from the Pittsburgh Steelers when they meet for league meetings before the end of the month.
The Steelers’ suggestion centers on how players are contacted once the free agent negotiating period opens.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON News
Huntington Bank Field before a game between the Cleveland Browns and the Miami Dolphins in Cleveland on Oct. 19, 2025. (Ken Blaze/Image Images)
Troy Vincent, the NFL’s executive vice president of football operations, said at last month’s scouting meeting that none of the proposals presented this year addressed the initiative. However, the NFL competition committee will release proposed rule changes next week.
ROBERT KRAFT SAYS NFL OWNERS ‘WILL PUSH LIKE THE DICKENS’ TO MAKE BIG CHANGES TO THE SCHEDULE
At least 24 teams must vote in favor of any rule change for it to be approved.
The NFL shield logo on the field at SoFi Stadium on November 25, 2024, in Inglewood, California. (Kirby Lee/magn Images)
The NFL limits trades involving future draft picks to three years, while the NBA allows deals up to seven years in advance.
Cleveland Browns helmets on the field before a game between the Browns and the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sept. 28, 2025, in Detroit. (David Reginek/Imagn Images)
The proposal drew some criticism, with one fan pointing to the blockbuster 2022 trade to acquire quarterback Deshaun Watson.
“The Browns are here trying to trade 2030 picks before they finish regretting the 2022 one,” the fan wrote on X.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE News APP
The Browns suggested the change would foster an environment for a more active trade market and greater roster flexibility.
Follow News Digital sports coverage in Xand subscribe to the News Sports Huddle newsletter.
Chantz Martin is a sports writer for News Digital.