Browns Draft: 5 'Draft Risers' Cleveland Could Select in the 2026 NFL Draft

The Cleveland Browns could target these NFL 'draft risers' in 2026 including Monroe Freeling, Jeff Caldwell and more.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:09pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in Browns colors depicts the chaotic energy of the NFL draft, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the multifaceted process of evaluating and selecting top prospects.A cubist illustration captures the complex dynamics of the NFL draft, where teams must navigate a shifting landscape of talent and potential to build a championship roster.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns' future largely depends on finding a competent quarterback and whether star pass rusher Myles Garrett remains with the team. While the quarterback class is considered weak, ESPN highlighted five 'draft risers' the Browns could target, including offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, safety Jeff Thieneman, offensive tackle Olu Iheanachor, wide receiver Jeff Caldwell, and running back Kobe Kpeenu.

Why it matters

The Browns need to find talent across the roster, especially on offense, to support their defensive core led by Myles Garrett. These 'draft risers' could provide immediate impact at key positions of need like offensive line, wide receiver, and running back.

The details

Monroe Freeling is a highly athletic offensive tackle prospect from Georgia who impressed with his fluidity and ability to recover against inside pass rushers. Jeff Thieneman is a versatile safety from Purdue and Oregon who opened eyes with his combine performance. Olu Iheanachor is a massive offensive tackle prospect from a small school who scouts believe has significant upside. Jeff Caldwell is a tall, speedy wide receiver who could provide a red zone threat. Kobe Kpeenu is a consistent, physical running back from North Dakota State.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April 2026.

The players

Myles Garrett

A star defensive end for the Cleveland Browns.

Monroe Freeling

An offensive tackle prospect from the University of Georgia who impressed with his athleticism and ability to recover against inside pass rushers.

Jeff Thieneman

A versatile safety prospect who played at both Purdue and Oregon, and turned heads with his combine performance.

Olu Iheanachor

A massive offensive tackle prospect from a small school who scouts believe has significant upside due to his size, mobility, and 83-inch wingspan.

Jeff Caldwell

A tall, speedy wide receiver prospect who could provide a red zone threat for an NFL offense.

Kobe Kpeenu

A consistent, physical running back prospect from North Dakota State who averaged 5.3 yards per carry over his college career.

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What’s next

The Browns will continue to evaluate prospects and prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place in late April.

The takeaway

The Browns have several needs to address in the 2026 draft, and these 'draft risers' could provide immediate impact at key positions like offensive line, wide receiver, and running back to complement their defensive core led by Myles Garrett.