Joe Thomas Says Browns Must Address 2 Key Needs

The Cleveland Browns have plenty of needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, and franchise legend Joe Thomas believes the approach should be pretty straightforward.

With two first-round picks, the Browns have a chance to reshape key parts of their roster. And according to Thomas, the priorities shouldn’t be complicated.

He believes the Browns need to address their two biggest needs in wide receiver and offensive line.

“I still think this draft is going to look a little bit like we talked about last year—we’ve got to get weapons. We need a receiver—that’s probably our biggest need that we can address in this draft. Then, I’d like to get a tackle. We still need a tackle for sure. You usually have to get those guys in the first round. To me, you kind of start at receiver and tackle. Obviously, when there’s a value opportunity, you take advantage of it,” Thomas said.

.@JoeThomas73 talks how he thinks the Browns should approach this year's NFL Draft:#DawgPound | @BallyBet pic.twitter.com/ahi497E37d

— Cleveland Browns Daily (@Browns_Daily) April 1, 2026

Adding a dynamic receiver early in the draft would immediately give the offense a different dimension. At the same time, the offensive line remains a question mark.

Cleveland has made moves to reinforce the unit, but left tackle is still uncertain. As Thomas pointed out, elite tackles are rarely found outside the first round, making this draft a critical opportunity to secure a cornerstone player at the position.

As one of the best offensive linemen in NFL history, Thomas understands exactly how important it is to build from the trenches while also surrounding your offense with playmakers.

While receiver and tackle may be the primary needs, the Browns also have to consider how the board falls. If a top prospect at another position unexpectedly slips, Cleveland could pivot and possibly trade down to acquire more draft picks.

With picks at No. 6 and No. 24, the Browns are in position to execute exactly what Thomas outlined.

Now, it’s just a matter of whether they follow that blueprint.