Browns Likely to Bypass QB Need in 2026 NFL Draft

Cleveland's quarterback situation remains uncertain, but the team may focus on other positions of strength in the upcoming draft.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:10pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Cleveland Browns football game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.A cubist interpretation of the Cleveland Browns' ongoing search for a reliable quarterback.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns are facing uncertainty at the quarterback position, with Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson both struggling to provide consistent production. However, the 2026 NFL Draft class is not considered particularly strong at the quarterback position, with many top prospects failing to live up to expectations in their senior seasons. As a result, the Browns may opt to build up the offense around the signal-caller rather than taking a risk on an early-round QB.

Why it matters

The Browns have been searching for a long-term answer at quarterback for several seasons, and their inability to find a reliable starter has held the team back. While the team could still address the position in the draft, the lack of top-tier QB prospects may lead them to focus on other areas of need, such as the offensive line and defensive front seven.

The details

The 2026 NFL Draft class is considered strong at several positions, including edge rusher and linebacker, but thin at quarterback. Prospects like Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar, and Cade Klubnik were expected to be part of a stacked QB group, but their struggles in their senior seasons have caused their stock to plummet. The Browns could still take a chance on a QB like Fernando Mendoza or Ty Simpson, but the team may be better served building up the offense around the signal-caller and addressing the position in a future draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on April 23rd.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

The Browns' starting quarterback in 2025, Sanders had his moments but struggled to provide consistent production.

Deshaun Watson

A six-time Pro Bowler, Watson is coming off an Achilles injury and has not played at an elite level in several seasons.

Fernando Mendoza

A quarterback prospect who is expected to eventually become a starter in the NFL.

Ty Simpson

A quarterback prospect from Alabama who has potential but is still considered a bit of a question mark.

Garrett Nussmeier

A quarterback prospect from LSU who was expected to be part of a strong QB class but struggled in his senior season.

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What’s next

The Browns will have to decide whether to address their quarterback need in the 2026 draft or wait until next year when the QB class is expected to be stronger.

The takeaway

The Browns' quarterback situation remains uncertain, but the team may be better served building up the offense around the signal-caller and addressing the position in a future draft, as the 2026 class is not considered particularly strong at the quarterback position.