ESPN’s Browns 2026 blueprint: Draft picks and offensive overhaul originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
According to ESPN Browns reporter Daniel Oyefusi, the mission for Cleveland this offseason is clear. Fix an offense that ranked last in the NFL over the past two seasons, averaging a miserable 14.5 points per game over that stretch.
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New head coach Todd Monken was brought in to implement a new scheme and “score anyway possible.” However, it’s up to GM Andrew Berry to deliver the influx of talent needed to make this turnaround a reality.
With two first-round picks and 10 total selections in 2026, Cleveland has flexibility, but limited salary cap space means smart shopping when it comes to free agency.
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Rebuilding the decimated offensive line absolutely has to be top priority. Needing to replace at least four starters means Berry will need to add both free agents and from the draft.
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Up front, value FAs like Jermaine Eluemunor (a versatile tackle/guard who fits multiple schemes) and Justin Skule (can play left and right tackle who started nine games for Minnesota in 2025) could help stabilize the line. According to Spotrac.com, Eluemunor projected annual average salary is $8.6-million, while Skule comes in at $2.76-million. Reasonable pricing for veterans that can step in and perform, to not rush in younger players.
In the draft, first-round-caliber prospects such Spencer Fano, Caleb Lomu and Francis Mauigoa have all been mocked to the Browns as tackle options. Berry must hit on this high draft capital selection to deliver an anchor for the O-line.
Tutu Atwell, Rams
(Getty Images)
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At wide receiver, Cleveland needs to be “ballin’ on a budget” if they want to bring in any free agent veterans. Affordable upside secondary targets like 26-year old Tutu Atwell from the Rams, reliable possession man Josh Reynolds of the Jets, or the Cowboys Jalen Tolbert should all be investigated.
The draft is where Berry needs to find his true WR1. Ohio State’s Carnell Tate brings size, speed and route precision. At 24th overall the 6’4” Denzel Boston offers a big bodied presence. Don’t sleep on Senior Bowl riser Malachai Fields out of Notre Dame (6’4”, 223-lbs) either.
Monken’s scheme demands protection and playmakers. Berry has the picks. Now comes the reset. The Browns have all the ammo they need to make 2026 a dramatic turnaround.
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