The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for the 2026 season with a defense that's already one of the league's best. But as any Browns fan knows, it’s the offense that needs a little TLC.
General Manager Andrew Berry has been busy, focusing on shoring up the offensive line. While progress has been made, there are still a few gaps to fill.
The Browns have nine draft picks in their arsenal, four of which are in the top 100, and a decent $21.39 million in cap space, according to Over the Cap. Let’s dive into the five key areas they need to address before training camp kicks off.
Linebacker
Reuniting Quincy Williams with defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg was a solid move. Williams thrived under Rutenberg’s guidance, showcasing his tackling prowess.
However, with Devin Bush heading to the Bears, the linebacker corps feels a bit thin. The status of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah remains uncertain, leaving the team reliant on unproven talents like Nathaniel Watson and Winston Reid.
While a first-round linebacker pick seems unlikely, the Browns could eye Texas' Anthony Hill Jr. or Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez in the second round. Veteran options like Anthony Walker Jr. or Matt Milano could also be on the table.
Quarterback
The quarterback situation remains a hot topic. Shedeur Sanders shows promise, but the Browns still lack a proven franchise QB.
Free agency didn’t bring any new faces to the QB room, so the draft might be their next opportunity. However, with no standout prospects this year, they might hold off until 2027.
If they choose to explore options, Alabama’s Ty Simpson or Penn State’s Drew Allar could be in the mix.
Cornerback
Denzel Ward's spot is secure, especially after surviving salary cap discussions. Tyson Campbell has been a solid addition following the Greg Newsome II trade, but depth is still needed.
With Myles Harden as the sole slot option and Martin Emerson Jr. recovering from injury, the Browns have some decisions to make. If South Carolina's Brandon Cisse isn’t available in the second round, Ohio State's Davison Igbinosun might be a smart pick at No.
- Veteran corners like L'Jarius Sneed could also be considered for short-term deals.
Left Tackle
The offensive line is nearly set, but the left tackle position is still a glaring need. Dawand Jones has potential but is injury-prone, making it risky to rely on him as the primary option.
With picks at Nos. 6 and 24, the Browns have a shot at bolstering this crucial spot. Even if top prospect Francis Mauigoa is off the board, talents like Spencer Fano or Kadyn Proctor could be the answer.
Wide Receiver
This is perhaps the most pressing need for the Browns. Jerry Jeudy hasn’t emerged as the go-to WR1, and the QB-whoever it may be-needs reliable targets.
Cedric Tillman’s injuries and the inexperience of Luke Floriea and Jamari Thrash leave the receiving corps in question. The Browns are likely to use a first-round pick on a wide receiver.
If Carnell Tate isn’t the choice at No. 6, they have plenty of options at No. 24 or No. 39.
Jordyn Tyson, Makai Lemon, and Denzel Boston are all intriguing prospects. Signing a seasoned veteran like Deebo Samuel or DeAndre Hopkins could also provide a much-needed boost.
The Browns have a solid foundation, but addressing these key positions will be crucial to making a deeper playoff run. With savvy draft choices and strategic signings, they could be well on their way to becoming a formidable force on both sides of the ball.