Browns May Target Speedy Indiana Cornerback on Day 2 of NFL Draft

D'Angelo Ponds' impressive Pro Day performance has Cleveland experts predicting a potential steal in the middle rounds.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:05pm

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The Cleveland Browns are widely expected to address their needs at wide receiver and offensive tackle with their two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, a growing number of experts now believe the team may also target a cornerback early on Day 2, with Indiana's D'Angelo Ponds emerging as a potential target after his standout Pro Day workout.

Why it matters

The Browns' secondary has been a point of emphasis this offseason, with concerns about the injury history of cornerback Tyson Campbell. Ponds' elite speed and lockdown coverage ability could make him an ideal fit to complement star cornerback Denzel Ward and solidify the Browns' defensive backfield.

The details

At Indiana's Pro Day, the 5-foot-9, 182-pound Ponds turned heads with an unofficial 40-yard dash time of 4.31 seconds, potentially even faster than 4.28 seconds. Beyond his elite speed, Ponds was a shutdown corner for the Hoosiers last season, allowing just a 55.4 passer rating when targeted and breaking up three passes in the College Football Playoff Championship Game.

  • On Wednesday, Ponds impressed scouts from all 32 NFL teams at Indiana's Pro Day workout.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

D'Angelo Ponds

A cornerback prospect from Indiana University who is gaining buzz as a potential Day 2 steal in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his impressive Pro Day performance.

Denzel Ward

The Cleveland Browns' star cornerback, who has been playing at an elite level and will likely be paired with a new defensive back in the 2026 draft.

Tyson Campbell

A cornerback acquired by the Browns in a trade with the Jaguars last season, but his history of soft-tissue injuries remains a concern.

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns, who will be tasked with addressing the team's needs in the upcoming draft.

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What’s next

The Browns will continue to evaluate cornerback prospects like D'Angelo Ponds leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with their second-round pick at No. 39 overall being a potential landing spot for the speedy Indiana defensive back.

The takeaway

The Browns' secondary has been a point of emphasis this offseason, and D'Angelo Ponds' impressive Pro Day performance has put him on the team's radar as a potential Day 2 target who could provide valuable depth and competition at cornerback alongside Denzel Ward.