In the wake of trading away Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns are poised to embark on a new era, one that promises to be both exciting and challenging. This move, while significant, is just the beginning of a journey that will shape the team's future. With a fresh start, the Browns are now free to explore various strategies, including the potential need to trade up for a quarterback and the associated costs. But for now, the focus is on utilizing their picks to identify and develop talent.
A Glimpse into the 2027 Draft
The 2027 NFL Draft is over ten months away, but it's never too early to start planning. This mock draft exercise serves as a fun way to explore the possibilities and get a sense of where the Browns might be headed. With seven picks in the first four rounds, the team has the opportunity to address various needs and build a strong foundation.
1. Darian Mensah, QB, Miami (FL)
Darian Mensah is a modern-day quarterback who has already made a name for himself in college football. His journey began at Tulane, where he showed promise as a freshman, and continued at Duke, where he thrived and led the team to the ACC Championship. Now, Mensah is poised to take on the challenge of leading the Miami Hurricanes, a team with championship aspirations.
What makes Mensah particularly fascinating is his ability to make difficult passes look easy. His career-adjusted completion percentage of 76.1 is impressive, and his efficiency at the intermediate level of the field is a standout feature. While he may not be the most athletic quarterback, his mobility and ability to extend plays make him a valuable asset. In my opinion, Mensah has the potential to be even better than Cam Ward, who helped revitalize the Duke program and was selected first in the 2025 draft.
2. K.J. Bolden, S, Georgia (via LAR)
Last year, there was an outcry for the Browns to select safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State. While K.J. Bolden may not be on the same level as Downs, he is still a highly talented safety who could fill a similar role for the Browns. With Grant Delpit on the final year of his deal and Ronnie Hickman on a restricted tender, the Browns need to add another safety to their roster.
Bolden is a reliable and impact tackler, with a 4.9% missed tackle rate in 2025. His excellent awareness and intelligence on the field make him a versatile player who can adapt to different defensive schemes. In my view, Bolden is the best safety in college football this year and would be a valuable addition to the Browns' defense.
3. Kade Pieper, OL, Iowa
Kade Pieper had an outstanding year at right guard and was named a First Team All-American by PFF. His athletic mauling style and ability to run the football make him an ideal fit for the Browns' scheme. With the addition of Spencer Fano, Parker Brailsford, and Austin Barber, as well as the signing of Zion Johnson, the Browns have a strong group of athletic and gritty players in the running game.
Pieper's best fit as a starter is probably on the right side, but he can also slot into center, replacing Logan Jones. His versatility and depth make him a valuable asset, and the Browns clearly hope that Brailsford can be the team's center. In my perspective, Pieper is a terrific player who can provide both depth and stability to the offensive line.
4. Teitum Tuioti, EDGE, Oregon
Teitum Tuioti had a monster season at Oregon, leading the Ducks with 9.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. His pass rush win rate increased from 13.5% in 2024 to 14.7% in 2025, and he was arguably a better run defender than pass rusher. The Browns desperately need more edge rush help, and Tuioti could be a valuable cog in the unit.
While Tuioti's change of direction ability may be a concern, his high effort and good technique, along with his long arms, make him an appealing prospect. In my opinion, he has the potential to go much higher in the draft, but the Browns may see him as a valuable addition to their defensive line.
5. Jyaire Hill, CB, Michigan
Jyaire Hill has excellent length for the position and plenty of man coverage experience, which could make him a good fit for the Browns' defense. The team needs to bolster the depth of the cornerback position and could be looking for a long-term starting option next season. Hill is aggressive and instinctive, but he needs to become more reliable on an island.
In my view, Hill has the potential to become a playmaker if he can clean up some of his inconsistencies. If he can improve his reliability, his stock could increase by the time the draft arrives, making him a valuable addition to the Browns' secondary.
6. Benjamin Brahmer, TE, Penn State (via NYG)
Benjamin Brahmer is a massive tight end who looks the part of the inline Y the Browns may still need next offseason. While he has significant work to do as a blocker, his inline usage has increased over the course of his career, and he was a highly productive pass catcher last year, leading the Cyclones with 37 receptions, 446 yards, and six receiving touchdowns.
In my opinion, Brahmer could be a sought-after commodity if he has another good year as a pass catcher and makes progress as a blocker. With the addition of quarterback Rocco Becht, who transferred from Iowa State, Brahmer could be a key target for the Nittany Lions.
7. Evan Tengesdahl, OG, Cincinnati (via SEA)
Evan Tengesdahl is a mauler as a run blocker and a pass protector, having surrendered just one quarterback hit the rest of the season after two ugly games to start the year. He has experience as a puller and could be a valuable addition to the Browns' offensive line, providing depth and stability.
In my perspective, Tengesdahl's best fit as a starter is probably on the right side, but he can also slot into left guard. His ability to play with effort and finish plays to the whistle makes him a valuable asset, and the Browns need to build up their depth at the position.
A New Era for the Browns
The trade of Myles Garrett is a significant turning point for the Cleveland Browns. With a fresh start, the team is now free to explore various strategies and build a strong foundation for the future. While the 2027 draft is still over ten months away, this mock exercise serves as a fun way to explore the possibilities and get a sense of where the Browns might be headed.
In my opinion, the Browns have the opportunity to build a strong defense with players like Mensah, Bolden, Pieper, Tuioti, and Hill. They also have the potential to add depth and stability to the offensive line with players like Tengesdahl and Brahmer. With a new era on the horizon, the Browns are poised to make a significant impact in the NFL.
