2026 NFL Mock Drafts Highlight Browns' Defensive Needs

Analysts see Cleveland addressing both offensive and defensive holes in upcoming draft

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, analysts are offering a diverse range of opinions on how the Cleveland Browns should approach their two first-round picks. While some mock drafts have the Browns focusing on offensive needs like the offensive line and wide receiver, others believe the team should bolster its defense, potentially targeting positions like defensive tackle and safety.

Why it matters

The Browns are coming off a disappointing season, and their roster has several areas that need improvement. How they approach the draft will be crucial in determining the team's trajectory for the upcoming season and beyond.

The details

In the latest round of mock drafts, analysts have the Browns considering a variety of options with their two first-round picks. At No. 6 overall, some have them addressing the offensive line by selecting Utah tackle Spencer Fano or Georgia's Monroe Freeling, while others believe they should target a wide receiver like Washington's Denzel Boston or Ohio State's Carnell Tate. However, there are also some defensive surprises, with NBC's Kyle Dvorchak suggesting the Browns could take Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, and CBS's Garrett Podell mocking them to select Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Spencer Fano

An offensive tackle from the University of Utah who is known for his strong technique and ability to protect the quarterback.

Lee Hunter

A defensive tackle from Texas Tech who is praised for his strength and ability to disrupt the run game.

Caleb Downs

A safety from Ohio State who is considered a versatile and impactful player on the defensive side of the ball.

Denzel Boston

A wide receiver from the University of Washington who has excellent size and is a threat in the red zone.

Carnell Tate

A wide receiver from Ohio State who has the size and skill set to be an elite X receiver at the next level.

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What they’re saying

“Fano is an athletic right tackle with refined technique. His strong suit in pass protection is his high-level balance and footwork, staying step for step with speedy, bendy edge rushers. Improvement is needed against counter moves.”

— Garrett Podell, CBS.com writer (CBS.com)

“Hunter is a strong and wide defensive tackle, which made him an outstanding run defender with Texas Tech in 2025. He can toss interior offensive linemen out of the way like it's nothing, and he can move fluidly from side to side as well, which allows him to lunge for tackles for loss in the run game.”

— Garrett Podell, CBS.com writer (CBS.com)

“Downs doesn't play one of the most valuable positions in football, but he's so impactful in his role that plenty of teams will view him as a lottery pick. His versatility will allow him to fill multiple holes on an underperforming Cleveland defense.”

— Kyle Dvorchak, NBC analyst (NBC)

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in April, where the Browns will have the opportunity to address their roster needs through their two first-round picks.

The takeaway

The diversity of opinions in the latest 2026 NFL mock drafts highlights the Browns' need to carefully evaluate both their offensive and defensive weaknesses and make strategic selections that will help the team improve in the upcoming season.