Browns Urged to Draft Best Players, Not Fill Holes

Cleveland fans focus on OT and WR needs, but team should consider best player available approach in 2026 NFL Draft

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:21pm

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As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Cleveland Browns have several roster holes to address, particularly on the offensive line and at wide receiver. However, some analysts are urging the team to consider a 'best player available' drafting strategy rather than reaching to fill specific needs. The Browns have the 6th overall pick and could opt to take the top player on their board, even if it's not at a position of immediate need.

Why it matters

Drafting for need can sometimes lead teams to overdraft players or miss out on higher-value talent. The Browns have had success in the past trading down and taking the best available player, like defensive tackle Mason Graham in 2025. Adopting a BPA approach could help Cleveland build a more well-rounded roster in the long run, even if it means addressing certain needs later in the draft or through free agency.

The details

The Browns have holes to fill on the offensive line, at wide receiver, and in the secondary. However, analysts argue the team should be open to taking the best player available, even if it's not at a position of need. This could mean selecting a top safety like Caleb Downs from Ohio State at #6, or doubling up on defense with another defensive lineman later in the draft. The team will also have to weigh the value of receivers like Carnell Tate, who some feel may be worth a top-10 pick despite Cleveland's need at the position.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching in the coming weeks.

The players

Caleb Downs

A highly-touted safety prospect from Ohio State University.

Carnell Tate

A wide receiver from Ohio State University who is projected as a potential top-15 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mason Graham

A defensive tackle drafted by the Browns in the 2025 NFL Draft, who turned out to be a productive player for the team.

Travis Hunter

A cornerback prospect who was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2025 NFL Draft, after the Browns traded down from their original pick.

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What they’re saying

“Going into the draft with wanting to fill the roster holes is not the right mindset to have; instead, being open to taking the best player that's out there is the option that most, if not all, fans should consider.”

— Curtiss Brown, Author

What’s next

The Browns will have to weigh their options carefully leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, considering both their roster needs and the top talent available when they are on the clock.

The takeaway

The Browns have an opportunity in the 2026 NFL Draft to build a more well-rounded roster by focusing on taking the best players available, rather than reaching to fill specific needs. This approach has worked for them in the past and could pay dividends again, even if it means addressing some positions later in the draft or through free agency.