Cleveland Browns propose extending NFL draft pick trade limit to five years

The Cleveland Browns have proposed a rule change that would allow NFL teams to trade future draft picks up to five years in advance, compared to the current limit of three years.[1][2]

Under existing rules outlined in the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement, clubs may not trade draft choices later than the third draft following the trade date.[3] The Browns' proposal aims to foster a more active trade market and greater roster flexibility for teams.[1]

NFL owners will review the Browns' suggestion alongside a Pittsburgh Steelers proposal on procedures for contacting players during the free agent negotiating window at their annual league meetings in late March.[1][4] At least 24 of 32 teams must approve any rule change for passage.[5]

Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations, stated at the 2025 scouting combine that no proposals submitted this year address the "tush push" play, despite offseason discussions of a potential ban.[6] The league's competition committee is scheduled to present its rule change recommendations the following week.[1]

The proposal has drawn some online criticism, with one fan on X referencing the Browns' 2022 trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson -- which cost three first-round picks -- suggesting long-term trades could lead to further regrets.[1][7] For comparison, the NBA permits trades of draft picks up to seven years ahead.[8]