The Cleveland Browns explored four different quarterbacks during the offseason, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility they’ll revisit various options — including the NFL draft, free agency, or trades — next spring to find a long-term starter.
On July 6, Sayre Bedinger from Fansided’s NFL Spin Zone released a mock 2026 first-round draft, projecting the Browns to hold the No. 2 overall pick and select LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, right after the New Orleans Saints pick Clemson’s Cade Klubnik at No. 1. Bedinger noted, “The Browns currently have one of the least inspiring quarterback competitions in the NFL, featuring Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. Plus, their roster has many other areas in need of improvement. This season is crucial for Cleveland to identify foundational players for the future.”
Garrett Nussmeier
Cleveland is expected to give significant playing time to both Gabriel and Sanders, their third- and fifth-round picks from 2025, respectively, during the upcoming regular season. If one stands out, he could enter 2026 as the starting quarterback, potentially leading the Browns to move on from the other. The team also holds two first-round picks in the 2026 draft — its own and one from the Jacksonville Jaguars — which could be used to target a quarterback early in Round 1.
Texas quarterback Arch Manning may also enter the draft after his junior season, adding another potential option. If Manning opts to stay in college, Nussmeier is expected to be among the top two quarterbacks available. Last season, Nussmeier threw for 4,052 yards with 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
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