By now, the NFL teams are ready with their plans for the 2026 NFL Draft. But for the Cleveland Browns, flexibility has become the identity. The Browns' general manager dropped an update that the fans were not ready for.

"We try and remain flexible as we go into draft weekend, and we want to use the asset in the best way possible, whether that’s sitting and picking, trading up, trading down, trading it for a veteran player, "Cleveland General Manager Andrew  Berry said to Brown’s beat writers in the NFL owners' meeting. "I know I said this last year and people thought it was just GM talk, but it really is the truth."

What does he mean by a flexible approach? Luckily, this year's class fits Cleveland’s needs at tackle and receiver, though defense is still in play if the top prospect is there. Arvell Reese and David Bailey are among the pass rushers rising into the top-five conversation.

The Cleveland Browns are struggling with their offensive line, which ranked 20th according to ESPN's pass block win rate metric. They struggled with protection issues as they ranked 24th in run blocking and allowed pressure on a league-high 39.1% of dropbacks.

So, finding a strong and reliable player to protect the quarterback has become very important. With two first-round picks, Berry has a great chance to fix this problem and bring stability back to the team.

How does the 2026 Draft look for the Browns? The No. 6 is their own pick. But the No. 24, they acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars in a 2025 draft-day trade when Cleveland moved down from the No. 2 overall spot. With both first-round picks, the front office is unafraid to make bold steps under Berry for the team’s future.

This year, how the board falls early will dictate Cleveland's next move.

Whom can the Cleveland Brown choose at No. 6?

At No. 6, the Cleveland Browns are in a position to choose a talent who fits exactly what the team needs.

“It’s difficult to predict what Cleveland will do — see last year’s trade back from the No. 2 pick — but chatter around the league is that wide receiver is in play at No. 6. Carnell Tate (Ohio State) is the name most often associated with the Browns," NFL Draft Analyst Matt Miller said.

Carnell Tate recorded 875 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns last season. He uses space and route tempo very smartly. He makes smooth late adjustments on deep throws and often leaves defenders out of position with an overall PFF grade of 90.3.

So, he is an absolute weapon who makes it difficult for defenders to stay close to him, thereby making him a hot target for the Browns. But Cleveland is predicted to shock the fans with their pick, according to NFL analyst Sean Deveney.

Kadyn Proctor of Alabama Crimson Tide football, once seen as a mid–first-round pick who could slide into the 20s, and the Browns are seen as a strong fit.

Now you tell us who you think the Browns will choose at No. 6? Drop in the comments!

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Written by

Shreya Mishra

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar