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Cleveland Browns 2026 NFL Draft Preview

Apr 25, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; A graphic announcing Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ selection by the Cleveland Browns with the 144th overall pick is seen in the Draft Theater during the third day of the 2025 NFL Draft at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Tork Mason/USA Today Network via Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns are making history by converting their Dawg Pound into a doggy daycare. 

Three starting quarterbacks, one of whom is followed by a camera crew. A new head coach who sent defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz packing. The reigning DPOY Myles Garrett is ghosting the team. A long list of continual heartaches for the faithful Browns fans. 

However, not all hope is lost. The Browns signed guard Zion Johnson on a three-year, $49.5 million deal. Additionally, their trade for tackle Tytus Howard from the Texans solidifies a desperate offensive line. Not to mention the quick signing of Quincy Williams to replace Devin Bush, the only defensive starter to enter free agency.

Browns Draft Picks:

Despite their overhaul of the offensive line, the Browns still need more depth and talent. Thankfully, their 2026 draft may very well be the difference maker, with five picks in the first four rounds:

  • Round 1: Pick 6
  • Round 1: Pick 24
  • Round 2: Pick 39
  • Round 3: Pick 70
  • Round 4: Pick 107
  • Round 5: Pick 144
  • Round 5: Pick 147
  • Round 6: Pick 206
  • Round 7: Pick 248

Browns Positions of Need:

Understanding the crucial role of a new head coach, GM Andrew Berry knows that it’s been “fast and furious” getting ready for the NFL draft. With a pitiful wide receiver room and an offensive line that is starting anew, the Browns have clear needs in these areas:

  • WR
  • OT
  • IOL

Key Draft Targets for Browns:    

Makai Lemon– Wide Receiver–USC 

The 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner, Makai Lemon, is a high-profile wide receiver who would change the Browns’ offense. With over 1,100 yards and 11 touchdowns, Lemon is an explosive slot receiver. 

Although he may not be the biggest receiver on the pitch, his speed makes up for it. Lemon is ranked as the 13th overall prospect in the 2026 class and represents a prime target for the Browns. 

Monroe Freeling – OT – Georgia 

Arguably the best tackle prospect in the draft, Monroe Freeling could excel as a starter in Cleveland. With a surprising 90 athleticism score in the combine, Freeling would add much-needed length and dexterity. 

Freeling is consistently mocked within the top 20 selections and will undoubtedly go in the first round. 

Caleb Lomu – OT – Utah 

Another athletic offensive lineman, Caleb Lomu, ran an unbelievable 4.99 40-yard dash. An All-Big 12 first-team player with zero sacks allowed in the 2025 season, Lomu is an immovable object.  

With the addition of Lomu, the Browns would excel in both the run and pass game. The Browns will need to aggressively pursue Lomu, who projects as a first-round talent, to send him to Cleveland. 

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