CLEVELAND, Ohio - With the 2026 NFL Draft just around the corner, the Cleveland Browns find themselves at a crossroads, facing two critical needs: a receiver and an offensive tackle. But what do the fans think?
We ran a poll among our Football Insider Subscribers to get a pulse on the priorities, and the result? A perfect tie.
Thirty-four fans are rooting for a tackle, while the other thirty-four are hoping for a receiver. It's a testament to the urgency at both positions.
The Browns' front office, led by GM Andrew Berry, has been here before. Remember the 2020 draft when they took a big swing with Jedrick Wills Jr. at left tackle?
Unfortunately, injuries derailed his potential, and after a year off, he's now with the Bears on a one-year deal. Meanwhile, Tristan Wirfs, picked just three spots later, has flourished with the Bucs, becoming a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro.
That stings for Browns fans.
Dawand Jones, a promising fourth-round pick in 2023, seemed like a potential solution at tackle. Yet, three consecutive season-ending injuries have raised durability concerns as he approaches a contract year.
On the receiver front, the Browns have struggled to draft a long-term No. 1 option in recent years. Trading for Amari Cooper in 2022 was a solid move, but after two productive seasons, he was traded to the Bills in 2024. Jerry Jeudy, another trade acquisition, showed promise with a Pro Bowl season but stumbled in 2025 with just 602 yards and two touchdowns.
Despite these challenges, Cleveland's front office typically avoids drafting purely for need unless it's a tiebreaker scenario. With two first-round picks at No. 6 and No. 24, they have the flexibility to address both needs.
At No. 6, Ohio State's Carnell Tate could be a prime target if they opt for a receiver. If they wait until No. 24, options like Washington's Denzel Boston or Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson might be available, depending on Tyson's injury concerns.
For tackles, the decision may hinge on how they evaluate prospects like Miami's Francis Mauigoa or Utah's Spencer Fano. Are they tackles or guards?
Can they transition to left tackle? If they choose a receiver at No.
6, Utah's Caleb Lomu could be a solid tackle option at No. 24.
The rising stock of Georgia's Monroe Freeling and Alabama's Kadyn Proctor adds another layer of intrigue.
Ultimately, the Browns have options, but they also have a history of surprises. Remember when they picked linebacker Carson Schwesinger at No. 33 in 2025? It was unexpected but based on their best available philosophy.
This year, with glaring needs and a split fanbase, the Browns face a pivotal moment. The real question isn't whether to pick a receiver or tackle, but whether they can finally get it right - maybe even both.