The Cleveland Browns are stepping into the 2026 offseason with a rare advantage: a surplus of premium draft picks. Thanks to the Jacksonville Jaguars’ wild-card playoff exit, general manager Andrew Berry now holds the No. 24 overall pick alongside Cleveland's own No. 6 selection. This puts the Browns in a prime position to make strategic moves that could reshape their roster.
While some fans advocate for using all ten picks to bring in fresh talent, the reality is that Todd Monken’s new offensive system demands proven performers to compete in the tough AFC North. With key departures like Wyatt Teller and David Njoku, and uncertainty looming over the offense, Berry might find more value in trading the 24th pick for a seasoned player rather than another rookie.
Let’s explore three veteran players who could be potential targets for the Browns’ second first-round pick.
Could the Browns Trade the No. 24 Pick for an Offensive Star?
- C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans
The buzz around C.J. Stroud has grown from mere speculation to a hot topic in national sports conversations.
Todd McShay, on his podcast "The McShay Show," highlighted Stroud as a sought-after quarterback for potential trades. Stroud, an Ohio State legend, fits perfectly with the aggressive, vertical style that Todd Monken aims to implement.
Although acquiring him might require the 24th pick and more, securing a young franchise QB like Stroud could be the bold move Berry needs if Houston is open to dealing.
- A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
If the Browns continue with Shedeur Sanders or Dillon Gabriel at quarterback, they’ll need a top-tier receiver. Jerry Jeudy hasn't fully met expectations, and the free-agent market for receivers is thin.
A.J. Brown could be the answer.
The Eagles are reportedly in a soft rebuild and might be willing to trade Brown for first-round capital. Known for his physical prowess, Brown aligns with the effort-driven culture Monken is fostering.
Trading for Brown could immediately address one of the Browns' most pressing needs, offering a win-now solution.
- George Pickens, WR, Dallas Cowboys
This potential move is quintessential Andrew Berry. Pickens is fresh off a standout season with the Cowboys but is caught in franchise tag complications.
With Dallas facing a significant cap hit and Pickens considering a holdout, a tag-and-trade scenario is plausible. Berry has shown interest in Pickens since his days at Georgia.
At just 25, Pickens is a Pro Bowl talent entering his prime, offering the deep-threat capability the Browns have missed. His prior connection with Monken could be key in managing his attitude and ensuring he thrives in Cleveland.
Will Andrew Berry Make a Bold Move?
Andrew Berry is known for his aggressive approach and calculated risks in roster building. The Browns have a playoff-ready defense, but their offense needs clarity and direction.
Trading the 24th pick for a proven offensive star like Stroud, Brown, or Pickens could be crucial for Berry, not only to kickstart the Todd Monken era with impact but also to secure his own position. This offseason is about more than just filling gaps; it’s about crafting a new offensive identity and strategy.
Giving Monken an accomplished NFL veteran could be the perfect start to his head coaching journey in Cleveland.