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2 Cleveland Browns rookies have ESPN moving them up in offseason NFL power rankings following the draft
ESPN has dropped its latest NFL power rankings, which has the Cleveland Browns moving on up thanks to two rookies they selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Cleveland Browns will hold their rookie minicamp in a couple of days and it shows how quickly the offseason is flying by. Cleveland just finished up the 2026 NFL Draft where they selected 10 rookies, and it looks to be another strong draft class.Β
Cleveland has to hit on this draft class if they want to take a step forward in the future from just eight wins the past two seasons. Much of the success the Browns can claim in 2026 will ride on what they get from the quarterback position. Cleveland did a good job of better setting up their starter, whoever it may be.Β
Browns move up in ESPN's NFL power rankings following the draftΒ
The feeling is that it will be either Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders starting for the Browns in 2026. Cleveland hopes to improve on its 5-12 record last season with Todd Monken's first year as a head coach ahead.
ESPN has dropped its offseason power rankings following the draft, and the Browns check in at the No. 30 spot. Cleveland was at the No. 32 spot in ESPN's way-too-early ranking, so they're up two spots.Β
"The Browns didnβt make a major receiver signing in free agency but double-dipped in the draft, selecting two wideouts with top-40 picks. KC Concepcion (No. 24) is a dynamic pass-catcher; 79% of his receptions resulted in a first down, which ranked 17th in the FBS last season.
Denzel Boston (No. 39) is a big-bodied target who should complement Concepcion well; Bostonβs 24 contested catches since 2024 were the 10th most in the FBS.
The rookie duo, which combined for 45 receiving touchdowns in their college careers, should immediately boost a Browns receivers room that ranked last in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches in
2025."
Daniel oyefusi
ESPN
Cleveland had to upgrade their wide receiver room from last season. Entering the season with Jerry Jeudy and Cedric Tillman's top two players at the position could not happen. Concepcion's ability to create after the catch alone should be a boost for a Browns offense that lacked explosive plays last year.Β
The Browns adding a big-framed wideout with 6-foot-4 Denzel Boston was key. Boston is going to have the ability to not only win downfield, but be a red zone target for Cleveland. For an offense already offering TE Harold Fannin Jr. as a real matchup problem, it's an intriguing possibility of what Boston can add.Β Β Β
Cleveland has the ability to be better than the third-worst team in the NFL in 2026. Their schedule is favorable, they have the makings of an elite defense, and their offense should be improved. As mentioned, much of it is going to depend on what's happening at quarterback.Β
