ESPN rolled out its comprehensive 2026 rookie guide this week, bringing together several analysts to break down everything from Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year contenders to fantasy projections and notes on the incoming quarterback class. Draft analyst Jordan Reid handled the Offensive Rookie of the Year rankings, and while running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price took the top 2 spots, it was Browns rookie KC Concepcion checking in at No. 5 that stood out most for Cleveland fans.
Reid explained why Concepcion’s skill set gives him a real path toward serious rookie of the year consideration.
“Concepcion is a sleeper candidate to win OROY because of the multiple ways he could shine as a rookie. He not only has inside out versatility in new coach Todd Monken’s offense, but he’s also a dynamic returner who can create positive plays on special teams. In Year 1 with Monken, playmakers outside of TE Harold Fannin Jr. are still unknown. Concepcion could quickly climb the ranks of reliable options and prove to be one of the more explosive young players in the NFL,” Reid wrote.
Concepcion’s ability to line up both in the slot and on the perimeter gives Monken flexibility to scheme him open in multiple ways, a trait that becomes increasingly valuable given how much uncertainty still surrounds the rest of Cleveland’s skill position group beyond Fannin. That uncertainty works in Concepcion’s favor, since a crowded but unproven receiving corps often creates more opportunity for a talented rookie to quickly separate himself.
The special teams element adds another dimension. Few Offensive Rookie of the Year candidates factor in return production as part of their overall case, but Concepcion’s ability to create explosive plays on special teams is a path toward creating highlight reel plays that often sway voters. Combined with his receiving role, that dual-threat profile gives Concepcion more avenues to rack up meaningful touches than most rookies competing for the same award.
His +1800 odds reflect long-shot status within a loaded rookie class headlined by Love and Price, but Concepcion could climb those odds faster than expected if Monken finds creative ways to get him the ball early in the season.
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