The Cleveland Browns could have a new-look offense in 2026.
The Browns are starting Dillon Gabriel, but he doesn’t appear to be the long-term answer. With that, Cleveland is likely to draft a quarterback early in the 2026 NFL Draft to try to find their franchise quarterback.
Ahead of the draft, The Athletic’s NFL draft analysts, Dane Brugler and Nick Baumgardner, predict that Cleveland will select Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson.
“The theme of the Browns’ 2026 draft class will be offense, offense, (and) offense,” the article read. “Quarterback (again) will be at the top of the priority list, but will a highly graded passer be available when the Browns are on the clock? They’ll be hoping a few of those underclassmen quarterbacks declare to give them more options.
“Because of Simpson’s poise and execution, I’d bet the Browns’ coaching staff would gravitate toward the Alabama signal caller — assuming Kevin Stefanski is back as head coach. Along with his smarts and intangibles, Simpson also has the athleticism that makes him a threat to extend plays, with both quick feet and quick eyes to help him find the open man without forcing throws.”
Simpson has been one of the best quarterbacks in college football and is a legit Heisman candidate. He has the second-best odds of winning the Heisman at +350 and should be an early pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Simpson is 153-for-218 for 1,931 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 1 interception as he’s been stellar and has Alabama as a legit national title contender.
Browns Predicted to Draft a Star WR
Cleveland has two first-round picks in 2026, as the Browns also have the Jacksonville Jaguars‘ pick.
The Browns acquired the Jaguars’ pick when Jacksonville moved up to select Travis Hunter. After taking Simpson, the draft analysts predict the Browns will use the second first-round pick on a star receiver.
“With its second first-round pick this draft (via Jacksonville), Cleveland could address wide receiver by selecting Makai Lemon, Carnell Tate or Chris Bell, depending on who’s available,” the article read.
All three receivers will be first-round picks and could be an immediate No. 1 receiver for the Browns in 2026. Drafting a duo of Simpson and a star receiver would bolster Cleveland’s offense and give the Browns a legit offense.
Cleveland Riding With Gabriel for the Time Being
Although the Browns selected Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft, neither appears to be a long-term answer at quarterback.
Gabriel has started three straight games, but the Browns’ rookie QB didn’t do much in Week 7. He threw for just 116 yards and didn’t throw for a touchdown, but despite that, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski was pleased with the rookie’s play.
“Yeah, first half especially was some tough conditions for both sides,” Stefanski said postgame. “I think you could see that in some of the handling of the football. But, we were plus four today. I don’t think we’ve turned it over the last three weeks. And that’s a recipe for winning football.”
Although Gabriel didn’t throw for a touchdown, he’s done a good job of managing the offense and helping Cleveland have success.
The Browns will take on the New England Patriots on the road on Sunday in Week 8.
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