As we inch closer to the highly anticipated 2026 NFL Draft, the excitement and anticipation among fans and teams alike is at an all-time high. With just 23 days left until the draft, teams are finalizing their strategies and preparing to make their picks in hopes of finding the next superstar player.
Here at EssentiallySports, we have been keeping a close eye on all 32 NFL teams and their potential draft picks. In fact, we have been doing daily mock drafts, highlighting the top prospects for each team. So far, we have covered the teams with the first five picks, and now it’s time to turn our attention to the Cleveland Browns.
The Browns have had a rollercoaster of a season, finishing with a 10-6 record and making it to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. However, their playoff run was cut short as they fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in the divisional round. With a talented roster and a proven head coach in Kevin Stefanski, the Browns are poised to build upon their success and make a strong push for the Super Bowl.
So without further ado, let’s dive into our 7-round mock draft for the Cleveland Browns.
Round 1 – Pick 26: Carnell Tate, WR, Florida State
The Browns’ biggest need heading into the draft is at the wide receiver position. After losing Odell Beckham Jr. to injury last season and with Jarvis Landry entering the final year of his contract, the Browns need to add a reliable target for young quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Enter Carnell Tate, a dynamic wide receiver from Florida State. Tate is a physical receiver with excellent route-running skills and a knack for making tough catches in traffic. He has the ability to stretch the field and create separation, making him the ideal complement to Landry and Beckham Jr.
Round 2 – Pick 59: Dorian Washington, CB, Georgia
The Browns’ secondary could use some depth, and Dorian Washington from Georgia could be the perfect addition. Washington is a physical corner with good size and speed, making him a solid option to pair with Denzel Ward. He has the potential to develop into a shutdown corner and could provide much-needed depth in the Browns’ defensive backfield.
Round 3 – Pick 89: Justin Rice, LB, Arkansas State
The Browns’ linebacker corps could use an upgrade, and Justin Rice from Arkansas State could be the answer. Rice is a tackling machine with excellent instincts and a nose for the ball. He has the versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker, making him a valuable asset for the Browns’ defense.
Round 4 – Pick 110: Joel Kellerman, OT, North Dakota State
The Browns’ offensive line has been a strength over the past few seasons, but they could use some depth at the tackle position. Joel Kellerman from North Dakota State could be a steal in the fourth round. He is a powerful and athletic tackle who excels in pass protection. With his raw talent and potential, Kellerman could develop into a starter in the future.
Round 5 – Pick 144: Josh Paul, TE, Stanford
The Browns’ tight end group is led by Pro Bowler Austin Hooper, but they could use some depth behind him. Josh Paul from Stanford could be a perfect fit for the Browns’ offense. He is a reliable pass-catcher with good size and the ability to create mismatches in the red zone.
Round 6 – Pick 178: Jared Davis, S, Marshall
The Browns’ safety position could use some depth, and Jared Davis from Marshall could be a solid addition. Davis is a physical and instinctive safety who is not afraid to come up and make tackles in the run game. He also has good coverage skills, making him a well-rounded safety option for the Browns.
Round 7 – Pick 222: Isaiah Hawkins, DE, Louisiana Tech
The Browns’ defensive line is stacked with talent, but they could use some depth at the edge rusher position. Isaiah Hawkins from Louisiana Tech is a raw but athletic pass rusher who could develop into a situational pass rusher for the Browns. He has the potential to be a steal in the seventh round.
In conclusion, the Cleveland Browns have the opportunity to add some much-needed talent and depth to their roster in the 2026 NFL Draft. With Carnell Tate as their first-round pick, the Browns
