As the NFL regular season draws to a close, various franchises prepare for different trajectories. For the Baltimore Ravens, the culmination of the 2024 regular season proved successful as they secured the AFC North title. Their decisive 35-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns represented their sixth division championship under head coach John Harbaugh, marking their second consecutive title. However, the Ravens' victory came at a cost, raising concerns about player health as the playoffs loom.

Pro Bowl wide receiver Zay Flowers, who played a crucial role in the Ravens' offensive schemes, suffered a knee injury during the game. After registering only one reception, Flowers left the contest and did not return. His absence could represent a significant blow to the Ravens moving forward, as he led the team in receptions and receiving yards this season, amassing over 1,000 yards. Despite his exit, fellow receiver Rashod Bateman stepped up, leading the team with five receptions for 76 yards and a touchdown. The Ravens boast several offensive weapons, including running back Derrick Henry, tight end Mark Andrews, and quarterback Lamar Jackson, the latter being widely regarded as one of the greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history.

Across the field, the Cleveland Browns faced disappointment with their loss, ensuring they will select no lower than the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This marks a continuation of the franchise's struggles, as they have only reached the playoffs three times since returning to the league in 1999. Despite the team's challenges during the 2024 season, there is potential for optimism as the Browns find themselves within range of securing one of the top two quarterback prospects in the upcoming draft—Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders are both highly regarded and could go within the top five selections. The Browns' recent past with Deshaun Watson's acquisition has not gone as planned, and the franchise may benefit from a strategic focus on acquiring a promising quarterback through the draft to instill stability within the organization.