3 Players the Cleveland Browns Should Target with the No. 6 Overall Pick

It’s hard to argue that any team came out of the 2025 NFL Draft in better shape than the Cleveland Browns. They added impact talent on both sides of the ball, including Mason Graham, Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger, Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr., Dylan Sampson, and Shedeur Sanders.

The defense took a major step forward thanks to Graham and Schwesinger, and it looks like a legitimate strength moving forward. Offensively, however, the story was very different.

Judkins appears to be a true RB1 at the NFL level. Fannin posted 731 receiving yards, ranking ninth-most all-time for a rookie tight end, and Sampson has already carved out a role as a reliable third-down back with strong receiving ability. And while opinions vary, landing Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round could prove to be one of the biggest steals of the draft. He has the talent to become the Browns’ franchise quarterback.

But if that’s going to happen, Cleveland must do more to support him.

Improving pass protection and adding another legitimate weapon in the passing game should be priorities this offseason. With the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, here are three players who could make life significantly easier for Sanders and help unlock this offense.

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

If Francis Mauigoa is on the board at No. 6, the decision should be simple.

Widely projected as a top-10 selection and considered by many to be the top offensive tackle in the 2026 class, Mauigoa would immediately address one of Cleveland’s biggest weaknesses. The Browns’ offensive line ranked 31st in 2025, an issue that cannot be ignored if the organization is serious about developing its young quarterback.

At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Mauigoa brings ideal size and physicality. His run blocking helped power Miami’s ground game, including Mark Fletcher Jr.’s 1,192-yard, 12-touchdown season. As a pass protector, he was equally impressive, allowing just 14 pressures and two sacks across 523 snaps.

Adding Mauigoa would stabilize the edge, create cleaner pockets for Sanders, and open up running lanes for Judkins. For a team trying to build a sustainable offense, that’s exactly the kind of foundational piece worth investing in.

Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

Spencer Fano is another offensive tackle projected to be chosen early.

At 6-foot-6 and 308 pounds, Fano combines athleticism with strong technique in both run and pass protection. Utah ranked second in the nation in rushing yards per game and eighth in sacks allowed, a testament to the strength of its offensive line and Fano was a key part of that success.

Like Mauigoa, Fano would immediately upgrade a struggling unit and give Cleveland the type of stability it lacked in 2025. If the Browns prioritize protection at No. 6, Fano would be a strong and logical choice.

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

If Cleveland decides to go the weapon route, Carnell Tate may be the most intriguing option.

Regarded by many as the top wide receiver in the 2026 draft class, Tate brings size (6-foot-5, 205 pounds), strong hands, and advanced route-running ability. While he may not be known for elite top-end speed, he consistently wins with body control, positioning, and reliability at the catch point.

In 11 games during the 2025 season, Tate recorded 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns while sharing targets with Jeremiah Smith. In Cleveland, he would step in as the clear WR1, and his target share would likely increase significantly.

A common comparison for Tate is Nico Collins. If he develops into that caliber of receiver, a true No. 1 who can dominate outside, the Browns’ passing game would take a major leap forward.

Final Thoughts

It’s unlikely all three of these players will be available at No. 6, but any of them would significantly improve the Browns’ offense.

Cleveland also holds an additional first-round pick from Jacksonville, giving the front office flexibility. If they select a receiver at No. 6, they could still target offensive line help later in the round. Conversely, if they lock in a franchise tackle early, they’ll have options to add more firepower afterward.

This is a pivotal offseason for both the Browns and Shedeur Sanders. The defense is already in a strong position. Now it’s about ensuring the offense can catch up.

If Cleveland commits to building around its young quarterback and makes the right move at No. 6, the future in Cleveland could look a lot brighter than it has in years.