If there is any downside to the Cleveland Browns’ current first-place standing in the AFC North, it is that they have likely already played themselves out of a very high pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. Once thought to be a contender for a top-five selection, they are now more likely to make the playoffs instead.
In fact, the Browns have a better chance of moving up in the draft with the first-round pick they acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Myles Garrett trade. Right now, with the Rams far away from their status as Super Bowl favorites, that choice would be No. 11 overall, with Cleveland’s own all the way down at No. 26, according to Tankathon.
That should be seen as good news, which is why analyst Earl D Mauldin is rejecting a popular argument that surrounds the Browns, saying the success they are having will be more important in the long run than some additional top draft picks.
“It seems like we’re still living in this mentality of coveting draft picks and so focused on improving this team via the draft when the best way that you can improve this team and attract players to come here is continue to win and continue to build up a winning culture,” Earl D Mauldin said.
“The best way that you can improve this team and attract players to come here is continue to win and continue to build up a winning culture.”
➡️ @earldapearl_216 on why the #Browns should prioritize winning over worrying about draft position. pic.twitter.com/4TjEn7kY3H
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) October 24, 2026
The Browns have built the foundation for this turnaround through the draft, particularly over the last two years, even though they haven’t been able to land a franchise QB. Almost all of the 17 players Cleveland has selected in 2025 and 2026 are contributing in some way, a group that includes Mason Graham, Carson Schwesinger, Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr., Spencer Fano, KC Concepcion, Denzel Boston, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, and Austin Barber.
So, the supporting cast should be nearing its peak whenever the Browns do find their quarterback of the future. As Mauldin points out, the roster may then also be able to add veteran players who see Cleveland as a viable destination rather than a final option.
Of course, the Browns will eventually have to pay these young players, and they may not be able to keep all of them. So Cleveland needs to keep adding prospects in the draft as well.
It is a combination that all successful NFL teams are able to figure out, and the Browns will have to do so to become perennial contenders.
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