Football fans love a good mock draft to stir up debates, and this latest one is sure to get Cleveland Browns fans talking. In a recent projection, the Browns make a bold move by trading away their No. 6 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft to the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision sees them pass on top talents like Ohio State’s wide receiver Carnell Tate and Notre Dame’s running back Jeremiyah Love.
The trade scenario involves Cleveland sending their No. 6 pick and a 2027 sixth-rounder to the Chiefs for the No. 9 and No. 40 picks, plus a fourth-rounder in 2027. The Chiefs, in turn, snag Miami Hurricanes’ edge rusher Rueben Bain with that high pick. Meanwhile, Love finds a new home with the Washington Commanders, a team eager to revitalize their running game.
As the draft unfolds, the New Orleans Saints are predicted to select wide receiver Carnell Tate at No. 8. The Saints have a history with Ohio State receivers, having previously drafted Chris Olave and Michael Thomas.
At No. 9, the Browns have a chance to grab safety Caleb Downs, arguably the draft’s top talent, but instead opt for Monroe Freeling, a left tackle from Georgia. While Cleveland has bolstered their offensive line through free agency by adding guard Zion Johnson and center Elgton Jenkins, and trading for Tytus Howard, Freeling’s selection is seen as a long-term project.
This decision leaves the door open for the Cincinnati Bengals to draft Downs at No. 10, a move that could significantly enhance their struggling secondary. With Downs in their ranks, the Bengals could pose a real threat to the Browns in divisional matchups.
While the Browns’ strategy to strengthen their offensive line is understandable, passing on a player like Downs could be a tough pill for fans to swallow, especially if he becomes a standout for a divisional rival.
Of course, mock drafts are just that-mocks. With a month until the real NFL Draft, there’s plenty of time for surprises. But if the Browns pass on players like Downs, Tate, or Love when the time comes, it could lead to some serious scrutiny of their draft strategy.