Jason Burgos
A major mock draft has linked the Cleveland Browns to a hidden gem game breaker with their second pick in the first round of this month’s NFL Draft.
Outside of three seasons with 10 or more wins, the Browns have been a disappointment for much of the last 20 years. In 2026, they will have a new coaching regime with former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken leading the way. However, he and the rest of the Cleveland brain trust need to make the most of a rare opportunity to select two players in the top 25 this month.
If this were next year, the Browns would probably use their pick at six on a top quarterback prospect. However, this year’s class has just one undisputed first-round QB in Fernando Mendoza, and he is projected to go first to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1. That means the organization will likely pivot to taking the best player available or improving the offensive line and wide receiver corps.
On Wednesday, The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman released his newest NFL mock draft, and the college football insider predicted — based on recent info from “coaching, scouting and agent sources” — that the team will use its first pick in Round 1 on Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa.
Cleveland Browns linked to KC Concepcion with second pick in Round 1
That would check one need off the board early. But who could they then take with their next pick at 24th overall? Well, it seems that Feldman believes the Browns will select a dangerous player that should still be available late in Round 1.
“Receiver is the big need to help spark a suspect offense. KC Concepcion’s wheels should help a lot,” Feldman said about the Texas A&M star. “This guy has dazzling playmaking ability. He’s stronger than you think at 6-0, 196. In 2023, he was the ACC Rookie of the Year at NC State, with 839 receiving yards and 320 rushing yards, averaging almost eight yards per carry.
“At A&M last season, he averaged 14 yards per offensive touch. He is a terror for opponents as a punt returner, averaging 18.2 yards and taking two back for touchdowns in 2025,” he added.
Feldman noted that the junior would go higher in Round 1, but the big knock on his game right now is issues with drops. He had seven last season. Nevertheless, he could fill two big needs in 2026 by giving them a big play threat in the pass game as well as a game breaker on special teams.
