Browns Predicted to Make Cowboys Draft Trade

Top analysts foresee Cleveland moving up from No. 6 pick

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a football game or NFL draft scene, using a palette of earthy browns, oranges, and blues to convey the strategic maneuvering and high-stakes decision making involved in the draft process.Top NFL draft analysts predict the Browns will make a bold move to trade up in the first round, potentially shaking up the 2026 draft order.Cleveland Today

With the 2026 NFL Draft just a week away, there is growing speculation that the Cleveland Browns will trade their No. 6 overall pick. Top draft experts Mel Kiper, Todd McShay, and Dane Brugler all predict the Browns will strike a deal with the Dallas Cowboys to move up in the first round.

Why it matters

The Browns have been active in the trade market in recent years, looking to bolster their roster through strategic draft maneuvering. A potential trade with the Cowboys could allow Cleveland to target a top prospect they covet, potentially shifting the balance of power in the AFC North.

The details

According to the reports, the Browns are expected to package their No. 6 overall pick along with additional selections to acquire a higher spot in the draft order, potentially as high as the Cowboys' current position at No. 3 overall. This would give Cleveland a prime opportunity to land an elite talent to complement their existing core of young stars.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for Thursday, April 23rd.
  • The Browns currently hold the No. 6 overall pick in the first round.

The players

Mel Kiper

A longtime NFL draft analyst for ESPN.

Todd McShay

An NFL draft expert and analyst for The McShay Report.

Dane Brugler

A senior NFL draft analyst for The Athletic.

Dallas Cowboys

An NFL franchise based in Arlington, Texas.

Cleveland Browns

An NFL franchise based in Cleveland, Ohio.

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What they’re saying

“The Browns have the ammunition to move up from No. 6 and land a top prospect, and that's exactly what I expect them to do.”

— Mel Kiper, ESPN Draft Analyst

“Cleveland has the draft capital to strike a deal with Dallas and jump up the board, and I think that's the most likely scenario for the Browns on draft night.”

— Todd McShay, NFL Draft Expert

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place on Thursday, April 23rd, where the Browns' potential trade with the Cowboys will be finalized.

The takeaway

The Browns have shown a willingness to be aggressive in the draft, and a trade with the Cowboys could allow them to land an impact player to bolster their roster as they look to compete in the AFC North.