The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft with some clear objectives in mind. They've got to bolster their offensive line, enhance their wide receiver corps, and possibly even consider drafting a quarterback. Fortunately, GM Andrew Berry is equipped with two first-round picks, including one in the top 10, to tackle these needs.
The Browns find themselves in an intriguing position. While there are standout prospects in this draft, the class isn't considered as deep as next year's. This has led to speculation that the team might explore trading their No. 6 pick to gather future assets.
Browns insider Tony Grossi suggests that the team could be eyeing a trade-down strategy. Speaking on ESPN Cleveland Radio, he noted that teams eager to draft talents like Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate might be willing to move up, allowing the Browns to acquire additional picks for 2027, including a couple of second-rounders.
Grossi stated, "More than likely, I see the Browns trading down. Would you take next year's second-round pick to drop two spots?
There's a couple of deals like that that could be in play. You might be able to do it twice, go six to eight, eight to 10, for two No. 2s next year, and you end up with (Francis) Mauigoa."
This potential draft strategy could reshape the Browns' future. Caleb Downs is widely regarded as a generational talent at safety, making it plausible that teams would be keen to trade up. Meanwhile, Francis Mauigoa, a top prospect at right tackle, might still be available for the Browns if they trade back, given the limited number of teams needing a player at his position.
Berry has shown a knack for making savvy trades. He previously acquired the Jacksonville Jaguars' first-round pick in 2026, No. 24 overall, by trading down from No. 2 to No. 5, a move that paid off. A similar strategy could help the Browns amass more draft capital for a potentially loaded 2027 draft.
Currently, the Browns hold eight draft picks for 2027. Adding two more second-rounders could give them the flexibility to trade back into the first round or even position themselves to draft elite prospects like Arch Manning, Jeremiah Smith, Dante Moore, Ryan Williams, or Dylan Raiola.
Of course, projections can be unpredictable, and this year's class was also expected to be stellar before some top prospects fell short. But if the Browns can secure more assets while still landing their target player, making a trade seems like a smart move.