Ohio State star Caleb Downs is destined to be one the top-rated players in the 2026 NFL Draft class and the Cleveland Browns control his fate.
As things stand right now, the Browns currently possess two first-round picks this year, including their own at No. 6 overall. With quarterback likely off the table given this year’s weaker class, Cleveland is in a curious situation where they’ll have to weigh taking best player available over need.
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It’s no secret that the Browns’ biggest needs are on the offensive side of the ball, particularly along the offensive line and at wide receiver. There is a world, though, where Downs represents the best player available when the Browns are on the clock.
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On the heels of safety Nick Emmanwori putting together a terrific rookie campaign in helping the Seattle Seahawks win the Super Bowl, the prospect of adding a player as versatile and talented as Downs is absolutely intriguing.
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Doing so, however, would leave the Browns punting yet again on filling some major roster holes on the other side of the ball until later on in the draft.
That scenario sets the Browns up to be the gatekeepers of Downs in a way. As good as he projects to be, they don’t need a safety, which means if someone behind them in the order really wants the game-changing player, they can explore trading up to get him.
Andrew Berry is no stranger to moving up and down the draft board. Just last year, he was able to keep an agreed-upon trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars under wraps until draft night, ultimately sliding from No. 2 overall to No. 5 overall with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who selected Heisman winner Travis Hunter. Cleveland, of course, settled on DT Mason Graham and added another 2026 first in the process.
Something similar could absolutely be on the menu again this year, especially if such a move would include a 2027 first-rounder that gives the Browns another year of first-round flexibility next year.
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The biggest question would ultimately center around how far back they’d be willing to slide?
One hypothetical trade proposed by Zach Wolchuck of 105.3 in Dallas, suggested the Cowboys trading up to sixth overall for Downs.
Here are the full parameters of the potential deal:Â
Dallas Gets: Pick No. 6 and Pick No. 39 from Cleveland
Cleveland Gets: Pick No. 12 and pick No. 20 from Dallas
Based on the Classic Jimmy Johnson Valuation Model for draft pick trading, the Browns are sending out 2,110 in value in that deal, while getting back 2,050. Trading into the top 10 comes at a premium, though, so it’s fair to reason Cleveland could ask for a future pick to sweeten the deal.
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The overall outcome is a good one, though, as the Browns would suddenly have three first-rounders this year to transform their roster. Then it just becomes about which players Cleveland misses out on by sliding back six picks.
The good news is that this class is considered deeper at two of the Browns two biggest needs, so there’s a reasonable chance they’d still be in line to draft a top tackle or wide receiver at 12 and snag the other at 20 or 24.
There’s also a chance that other teams drafting before Dallas could have some interest in Downs and be willing to make a move. The next several months will provide a better picture of that.
Regardless, it’s a good problem for the Browns to have, knowing that there could be some real flexibility with the sixth overall pick. If Downs is still there when they’re up, they’d be wise to pull the trigger on trading back.