The Cleveland Browns are expected to prioritize an offensive tackle during the 2026 NFL Draft. With a likely need on the left side, they could use one of their first-round picks on that position.
Even if they do select a tackle at No. 6 or No. 24 overall, their work on stocking the line may not be done. They could use later-round picks to fortify the interior, even after signing significant free agents for those roles this offseason.
Analyst Lance Reisland has named four interior lineman prospects that could fit the Browns after the first day of the draft: Gennings Dunker, Jake Slaughter, Connor Lew and Chase Bisontis.
“The NFL Combine results confirmed and clarified the individual profiles of these four prospects. Dunker demonstrated functional athleticism to pair with power and anchor. Slaughter tested as an explosive, movement-oriented center. Lew validated his play strength and leverage through measurable upper-body power. Bisontis showcased an impressive blend of size and agility. Collectively, these evaluations reveal that Cleveland has legitimate options on the second and third days of the draft to rebuild the interior offensive line. Each player offers a different solution depending on schematic priorities. If the Browns aim to restore physical dominance and protect the pocket from the inside out, the path forward may lie in selecting one of these tone-setting interior linemen,” Reisland wrote.
The Browns addressed the guard and center positions by signing Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins, and re-signing Teven Jenkins this offseason. Cleveland had to replace departing free agent starters Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller and Ethan Pocic at those spots.
Now, the Browns could look to the draft to add depth behind those newcomers. There’s also a chance Elgton Jenkins, a former Pro Bowl guard who is projected to be Cleveland’s starting center, could be used at tackle, which would create an opening.
Dunker played right tackle for Iowa but is projected as a guard in the NFL. A three-year starter known for his run blocking, he has 38 games of college experience.
Slaughter is a center who was a captain at Florida. He was a two-year starter who appeared in every game since 2022.
Lew had his 2025 season with Auburn cut short by an ACL injury he suffered in October. Just 20 years old, the center could develop into a potential starter with more experience as he matures physically.
Bisontis is a guard from Texas A&M who is reportedly climbing up draft boards after an impressive performance at his Pro Day. That’s after his physical testing was ranked fifth among guards at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.
With six picks available in Rounds 3 through 7, the Browns will have multiple opportunities to continue to address the offensive line for this season.
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