The Cleveland Browns are no longer chasing playoff wins in 2025. Instead, they are chasing answers. With the season spiraling and offensive issues piling up, the College Football Playoff has become Cleveland’s most crucial evaluation window for the 2026 NFL Draft. These games allow the Browns to see elite talent under intense pressure. That is relevant for a franchise searching for long-term solutions at quarterback, wide receiver, and along the offensive line.
The Browns enter this draft cycle with clarity, despite a painful season. Injuries, inconsistency, and poor protection exposed the roster’s weak spots. Although Deshaun Watson is expected to remain due to contract constraints, Cleveland still needs a proper plan for the future. Meanwhile, young quarterbacks such as Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel demonstrated both impressive flashes and apparent limitations. That reality makes this CFP class critical. So, let’s see the top prospects the Browns must target for the NFL Draft.
Top Players the Browns Must Target for the NFL Draft
1. Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Fernando Mendoza stands out as the cleanest quarterback in the field. He plays with calm, control, and confidence. In 2025, he threw for nearly 3,000 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. That production helped Indiana win the Big Ten and reach the College Football Playoff. Even though Mendoza is not flashy, he wins with timing and accuracy. For Cleveland, that matters. Mendoza processes quickly and releases the ball on time. He rarely forces throws into danger. He also moves well enough to escape pressure, although he prefers to win from the pocket. Against top CFP defenses, his poise will be under the microscope. If he shines, the Browns will pay close attention.
2. Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Ty Simpson brings a very different profile. He is raw but explosive. Simpson has arm strength, speed, and creativity outside structure. However, his 2025 season was uneven. He made big plays, yet he also struggled with decision-making. That inconsistency divides scouts.
Meanwhile, the CFP gives Simpson a chance to change the narrative. He already delivered a strong showing against Oklahoma with over 230 passing yards and two scores. For Cleveland, Simpson represents upside. He is not ready-made, but the ceiling is tempting.
3. Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Carnell Tate feels like a perfect fit for what the Browns lack. He runs sharp routes and catches everything near him. Tate averaged 17.5 yards per catch this season while consistently winning against top corners. Although Cleveland has invested in a receiver before, reliability has been lacking.
Tate creates separation and understands spacing. That helps young quarterbacks survive. In high-pressure CFP moments, his polish will stand out. He appears to be a player who can contribute immediately on Sundays.
4. Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Zachariah Branch changes games with speed. Defenses react differently when he is on the field. Although he is smaller than Tate, his burst is rare. Branch thrives on screens, jet motions, and vertical shots. He also adds value as a returner.
For Cleveland, easy yards have been hard to find. A branch can create them. Watching how Georgia uses him in tight playoff games will be telling.
5. Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama
Kadyn Proctor may be the most critical evaluation of all. The Browns’ offensive line collapsed in 2025. Proctor is massive at 6-foot-7 and 360 pounds, yet he moves well. Although his technique still needs work, the traits are obvious. He will encounter elite pass rushers in the CFP. That test matters. If Proctor holds up, Cleveland will take notice.
So, December losses will not decide the Browns’ future. Instead, playoff Saturdays may shape it.
