Browns' Quarterback Situation: Future Draft Plans and Current Roster
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The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a pivotal moment regarding their quarterback situation, as highlighted by a recent mock draft scenario from Dawgs By Nature. With two first-round picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, the Browns are poised to make a significant move to secure a new quarterback.
Following a season of marginal play under center, the urgency to address this position has become clear. The Browns traded back in the previous year's draft to position themselves for a top quarterback in 2026, and current options like Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders have not sufficiently impressed the organization to alter their plans.
In this mock scenario, the Browns are suggested to package both of their 2026 first-round picks, along with a likely Day 2 selection from 2027, to trade with the Tennessee Titans for the rights to the No. 1 overall pick.
This strategic move would allow them to select quarterback Mendoza, a player NFL scouts compare to Jared Goff or Kirk Cousins. While Mendoza may not possess the strongest arm or the quickest speed, his football intelligence sets him apart.
His ability to read defenses pre- and post-snap, combined with an excellent sense of timing in his throws, makes him an appealing prospect for the Browns. Mendoza's mobility allows him to evade pressure and avoid sacks, adding to his attractiveness as a future franchise quarterback.
The Browns have shown interest in quarterbacks with similar attributes to Mendoza, notably Gabriel, but Mendoza offers better physical traits and a higher potential upside. With the landscape of the quarterback position in Cleveland under scrutiny, the team's aggressive pursuit of a top-tier quarterback reflects their commitment to improving their roster.
As the Browns look forward to the 2026 Draft, their current challenges under center will significantly influence their decisions moving forward, and the choice to target Mendoza could reshape the future of the franchise.
According to Dawgs By Nature, this shift in strategy underscores the ongoing evolution of the Browns as they seek stability at the quarterback position.