ESPN’s Mel Kiper’s latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft is a dream scenario for the Cleveland Browns following free agency moves
The Browns would be taking a step forward big time if they could make these two picks come April.
The Cleveland Browns needed to go out and put together as close to a capable offensive line in free agency ahead of the NFL draft and they’ve just about accomplished it.
Bringing in Zion Johnson, Elgton Jenkins, and bringing back Teven Jenkins are all welcome moves for the Browns. Cleveland traded for OT Tytus Howard a couple of weeks ago, and they now look to potentially only need a starting left tackle from the draft.
We’re in the final stretch of mock draft season and the latest that’s surfaced would be perfect for the Brown.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft is a strong one for the Browns
Kiper has been doing this for a long time and is the reason draft content took off the way it did years ago. Kiper’s mocks are always worth following just because of the respect he’s gained as a draft expert. His latest two picks would be great options for the Browns.
Round 1, Pick 6: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Round 1, Pick 24: Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Thoughts on Monroe Freeling and Makai Lemon as first-round options for the Brown
Freeling is the best left tackle prospect in the draft when it comes to the highest ceiling. Freeling is an unreal athlete at 6-foot-7 and he has everything you want in a player who projects to be a longtime left tackle. The problem is Freeling hasn’t played a ton of football and probably would have been a top-five lock if he returned to school for another season.
Cleveland taking Freeling at six may be a slight reach and they’d be better served to trade back and take him. There may be some bumps early on with Freeling, but once he gets his feet under him in the NFL he should be everything the Browns want.
The Browns haven’t added to their wide receiver room in free agency, so a major change has to come in the draft. I have my doubts about Lemon lasting until No. 24, but if he did he’s the player you spring to the podium to take.
Lemon may not come off the way everyone would like as a person, but he can ball and he’s a nice fit for Cleveland. Lemon is a big play waiting to happen with the ball in his hands and projects as a huge difference maker from the slot. A good route runner who doesn’t have to win with speed at 5-foot-11, 192 pounds.
The Browns would be adding a rookie with the highest ceiling on the roster at wideout who has produced at a high level at USC over the last two seasons with north of 1,800 receiving yards.
With what the Browns have done in free agency so far, this is an ideal scenario for the Browns come April. Draft visits and pro days will be taking place over the next few weeks, then the draft will be here before we know it on April 23.