As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Browns fans have plenty to discuss and debate about the team’s future prospects.

Renowned draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr.recently released his latest big board ranking the top NFL draft prospects for 2026, and it offers intriguing insights into potential players the Cleveland Browns could target with their two first-round picks.

Let’s dive into some of the biggest needs for the Browns and the players Mel Kiper recommends, along with key analysis on what the team should prioritize.

One of the most talked-about names on Mel Kiper’s big board is quarterback Dante Moore, who holds the coveted number one spot overall.

Moore, a hometown kid from East Cleveland currently starring at Oregon, boasts impressive stats with a 71.4% completion rate, 19 touchdowns, only 4 interceptions, and a passer rating of 171.

He is a bigger quarterback, which fits the physical style the Browns might want to utilize.

However, fans and analysts alike wonder if drafting another Oregon QB makes sense, especially since Moore was reportedly backing up Dylan Gabriel, the Browns’ current quarterback who has struggled.

Another quarterback on Kiper’s board is Fernando Mendoza, ranked third overall.

Mendoza also presents size and skill, offering a style of quarterbacking Cleveland hasn’t seen recently.

Despite the hype around these quarterbacks, many Browns fans and analysts remain cautious about drafting a quarterback early, especially with promising talent like Shador Sanders yet to prove himself.

The Browns’ offense arguably needs more support in terms of receivers and offensive line before banking on a rookie QB.

Among defensive prospects, safety Caleb DS from Ohio State stands out as the seventh-best player on Kiper’s board.

DS is praised for his quick diagnosis of plays, excellent pre-snap instincts, and reliable open-field tackling.

His skill set fits perfectly with Jim Schwartz’s defensive scheme, making him a tempting pick for the Browns.

While the Browns’ defense is statistically strong, the potential departure of safety Raan Jenkins next year leaves a gap DS could fill.

However, given other pressing needs on offense, some question whether drafting a safety in the early first round is the best move.

The Browns’ biggest and most urgent need is clearly on the offensive line, particularly at tackle.

Mel Kiper’s top-rated lineman is Spencer Fano, a versatile tackle who has started games on both left and right sides.

Fano’s technical skills, size, and ability to protect the quarterback make him an ideal candidate to shore up Cleveland’s struggling offensive line.

The Browns have decent guards like Joel Batonia and Wyatt Teller, but their tackles have been repeatedly beaten on the edge, making this position a priority.

Another promising tackle is Francis Moyua from Miami, known for his dominance in pass protection and versatility to slide inside to guard if needed.

Moyua’s experience and low sack allowance make him a valuable asset for the Browns, especially if they lose Batonia or Teller in free agency or via trade.

Wide receiver is another critical position for the Browns, and Mel Kiper highlights several exciting prospects.

Carnell Tate from Ohio State is ranked 12th on the big board and has been a standout with six touchdowns and 587 yards this season.

Tate is an athletic freak with precise route running, great hands, and excellent body control.

He also contributes in blocking, a trait NFL coaches highly value.

Tate’s ability to make big plays regularly and his poise in critical situations make him a dream target for the Browns, especially since the team needs a reliable deep threat.

USC’s Kai Lemon and Arizona State’s Jordan Tyson are also notable wide receivers on the board.

Tyson, in particular, is considered by some mock drafts as the top wide receiver prospect in the class.

At 6’2” and 200 pounds, Tyson has scored eight touchdowns through seven games and could be a major weapon for the Browns’ offense if selected early.

While cornerback is not the Browns’ most glaring need, the position still deserves attention.

Jam McCoy from Tennessee ranks 13th on Kiper’s list and could provide depth and competition in the secondary.

With the Browns trading away Greg Newsome and relying on Tyson Campbell, who has shown flashes but remains unproven, adding a cornerback like McCoy could solidify the defensive backfield.

Mel Kiper’s analysis suggests that the Browns should focus on drafting an offensive tackle and a wide receiver with their two first-round picks, rather than rushing to select a quarterback.

The offensive line, especially the tackle position, is Cleveland’s biggest weakness and has been a consistent problem in protecting their quarterbacks and enabling the running game.

Securing a top tackle like Spencer Fano or Francis Moyua would address this critical area.

On the receiving end, Carnell Tate offers a tantalizing option to boost the passing game with his big-play ability and athleticism.

The Browns’ recent history of success with Ohio State wide receivers like Garrett Wilson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba supports the idea of targeting Tate if he is available.

If the Browns pick in the top 10, Kiper suggests taking the best offensive lineman available and then using the later first-round pick (potentially acquired from the Jaguars) to draft Tate or another receiver.

This approach balances immediate needs and long-term potential.

The 2026 draft presents a pivotal opportunity for the Cleveland Browns to address multiple roster weaknesses with two valuable first-round picks.

Mel Kiper’s big board highlights several prospects who could make an immediate impact, especially on the offensive line and at wide receiver.

While quarterback remains a popular draft topic, the consensus from this analysis is that the Browns’ success hinges more on improving protection and weaponry for their current and future signal-callers.

Browns fans are encouraged to weigh in on the team’s draft priorities, debating whether to invest in a quarterback early or focus on bolstering the line and receiving corps.

With the draft day drawing closer, anticipation is building for how the Browns will shape their roster and future.