The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for a fresh start in 2026, with Todd Monken at the helm of a new coaching staff. Armed with two first-round picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Browns have a golden opportunity to reshape their roster. If they can replicate last year’s draft success, Cleveland might quickly re-emerge as a contender.
Draft guru Daniel Jeremiah recently unveiled his Mock Draft 2.0, offering a glimpse into how the Browns might kick off their draft class. His predictions are bound to stir some debate among Cleveland fans. Jeremiah envisions the Browns selecting offensive tackle Spencer Fano at No. 6, followed by Monroe Freeling at No. 24, both promising offensive linemen.
Why the focus on the offensive line? With four of their starting linemen heading into free agency and Dawand Jones, who has battled injuries each season, as the only starter under contract, the Browns face a pressing need to fortify their line. Opting for two top-tier tackles would signal a commitment to protecting their quarterback and establishing a dominant front.
While addressing the offensive line is crucial, using both first-round picks on linemen could ruffle some feathers among fans hoping for an electrifying wide receiver. In Jeremiah’s scenario, top wideouts like Jordyn Tyson and Makai Lemon were still available when Fano was picked at six, and KC Concepcion was on the board at 24. Such a situation in the actual draft could lead to some heated reactions.
It's important to remember that draft strategies are far from set in stone. The Browns’ needs could shift based on free agency developments. With picks No. 6 and No. 24, their decisions will also hinge on the moves of teams drafting ahead of them.
As the draft approaches, the Browns’ path remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: they have the tools to make significant strides in the upcoming season.