The Cleveland Browns have made headlines by selecting two quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft: Dillon Gabriel in the third round and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round. Despite these acquisitions, there remains speculation that the Browns might have found their franchise quarterback through a strategic trade made on draft day, where they moved from the second to the fifth overall pick in a deal with Jacksonville and gained an additional first-round selection for 2026.
The decision to revitalize their quarterback situation follows an acknowledgment by ownership that the Deshaun Watson era was less successful than hoped, particularly after his recurring Achilles injuries. The 2025 quarterback class was deemed underwhelming compared to the prior year, leaving the Browns without a compelling option within the top five picks. However, the outlook for the 2026 quarterback class seems promising, with several talented prospects.
In an early 2026 mock draft by ESPN’s Matt Miller, which notably positions the Browns to choose first overall, he speculates that the team could select Cade Klubnik from Clemson. Miller draws comparisons between Klubnik and former Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield due to Klubnik’s strong arm and ability to make plays on the run. During the previous season, Klubnik showcased his skills by throwing for 3,639 yards, achieving 36 touchdowns against only six interceptions, notably impressing with a standout performance against Texas in the College Football Playoff.
While the specifics of the 2026 quarterback class are still developing, other notable names that have garnered attention include Arch Manning from Texas, Drew Allar from Penn State, LaNorris Sellers from South Carolina, and Garrett Nussmeier from LSU. Miller also highlights the need for the Browns to bolster their offensive line, recommending Caleb Lomu from Utah with their second first-round pick, especially in light of Dawand Jones’ recent performance and Jack Conklin’s contract situation.
Though mock drafts at this stage are speculative, they provide a glimpse into what the Browns might pursue next season, with attention turning to the collegiate performances of these quarterbacks in the upcoming year. As Cleveland prepares for the potential of adding a new signal-caller and making strategic roster decisions, hope remains for finding a long-term solution behind center.