Browns propose new NFL rule on when teams can trade draft picks

The Cleveland Browns have formally submitted a rule proposal that could reshape how NFL teams structure their trades for years to come. Rather than being limited to dealing draft picks within a three-year window, the Browns are pushing to extend that ceiling to five years. If passed, it would give every franchise far greater flexibility when putting together deals.

The proposal specifically targets Article XVI, Section 16.6 of the NFL Constitution & Bylaws. Currently, the three-year limit on how far out teams can trade picks is explicitly set out in the Constitution's definition of nominal consideration.

Cleveland's amendment would codify a new limit of five seasons. The measure needs 24 votes to pass and could come up for a decision as soon as this month's owner meetings, or be tabled until May.

The Browns' bold pitch comes with a track record of pushing rule boundaries

Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry's front office made history last August when the Browns became the first NFL team to trade a 2028 draft pick, sending a seventh-round selection to the Los Angeles Rams for offensive lineman KT Leveston.

That move already pushed right to the three-year boundary that Cleveland now seeks to extend. The Browns have made just three playoff appearances since returning as an expansion franchise in 1999, consistently relying on draft picks to rebuild. Pushing for expanded trading windows fits a front office built around aggressive asset management.

Cleveland was also among the teams that successfully pushed to move the in-season trade deadline to the Tuesday after Week 10, a change that eventually passed and altered how teams approach midseason transactions.

Berry's most defining move remains the 2022 trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson, which cost Cleveland three consecutive first-round picks sent to the Houston Texans, along with a fully guaranteed $230 million contract.

ESPN's Adam Schefter shared the proposal on X on Wednesday.