After winning just 13 games over the past three seasons, Browns fans were right to be skeptical heading into the 2026 campaign. Yes, the team did make some uncharacteristically positive moves in free agency and in the 2026 NFL Draft, but their new additions still needed to find a way to play together.
Many of their rookies have found a rhythm, which is a big reason why the team is already 5-3 and has some momentum heading into the back half of the year. KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston have established themselves as bona fide threats in the passing game, complementing what the Browns already had going on the offensive side of the ball.
Having two new dynamic playmakers is music to Harold Fannin Jr.’s ears, as the then-rookie tight end led the team in receiving in 2025 without much help alongside him. Now that he’s not the only one making plays, Fannin can have an even greater impact on this offense, as he’s not the clear No. 1 option in the eyes of opposing defenses.
With that in mind, the Browns might need to back up the Brinks truck with his next deal, which is what former Browns player LeCharles Bentley noted.
“Harold Fannin’s next contract… Browns may need a GoFundMe,” Bentley said.
Harold Fanin’s next contract… Browns may need a GoFundMe. 👏🏾 pic.twitter.com/bjFI8eHZas
— LeCharles Bentley (@64AMDG) November 8, 2026
As Bentley mentioned, Fannin is playing himself into a massive contract when his rookie deal is expiring, considering that he’s a cornerstone piece of this offense. The Browns’ defense has been their calling card for so many years, and now that they’re starting to figure things out on offense, they’ll want to keep their key pieces around for the foreseeable future.
Fannin seems to be in a similar mold as some of the best pass-catching tight ends in recent history, including Travis Kelce, Trey McBride, and Mark Andrews. These types of tight ends are great safety valves for their quarterbacks, but they’re also elite scoring threats and route runners that can add significant value to an offense.
NEXT: The Browns’ Rookie Receivers Are Running Away From The Class
