The discussion for Cleveland fans is about the plan to return to the glory days of old for the team. Some believe that the Browns have to get a quarterback at the top of the 2026 NFL draft. Others say that Cleveland has to build a team, especially on the offensive line and in the receiver room, so that a new quarterback can be successful.
The arguments on both sides make sense
Browns have to draft a QB high in the 2026 NFL draft
Browns have to build their O-Line, WR groups first
The reality is, there is no right way to build. The key is making the right decisions at the most important positions in football. It is one of the reasons that the 2025 NFL draft class, while great, isn’t a game-changer for the team. It lacks any certainty at the most important/premium positions in football: QB, WR, LT, DE, CB.
In the end, variables will likely determine what Cleveland does in the 2026 NFL draft. If they have a top pick and a quarterback with a high grade is available, most likely Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore, they will pick the quarterback. If they fall out of a top pick or do not have a high grade on the quarterbacks available, the Browns will likely build the roster around Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, Dillon Gabriel, and whoever else will make up the quarterback room in 2026.
Whether Cleveland ends up drafting a quarterback and then filling out the other important positions or sits out this year’s draft at QB while building the roster, the Browns must fill premium positions in the 2026 NFL draft. Like most questions, the answer to whether Cleveland needs a QB or to build around the QB is YES. Good teams have good quarterbacks, enough protection, and enough weapons.
The Browns need all three, and there is no right way to go about it. They just need to pick top players at the top positions, develop them well, and fill all of their needs as quickly as possible.
Do you believe there is a right way? A “have to” order for the Browns?
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