A major mock draft has linked the Cleveland Browns to a hidden gem game breaker with their second pick in the first round of this month’s NFL Draft.
Outside of three seasons with 10 or more wins, the Browns have been quite disappointing over the last 20 years. In 2026, they will have a new coaching regime led by former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. However, he and the rest of the Cleveland brain trust need to make the most of the rare opportunity to select two players in the top 25.
If this were next year, the Browns would likely use their pick at six on the top quarterback prospect. However, there is only one unquestioned first-round QB in this year’s prospect class in Fernando Mendoza, and he is projected to go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. This means the organization will likely focus on taking the best player available or improving the offensive line and wide receiver corps.
On Wednesday, The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman released his latest NFL mock draft, and the college football insider predicted — based on recent information from “coaching, scouting and agent sources” — that the team will use its first pick in Round 1 on Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa.
Cleveland Browns linked to Casey Concepcion with second pick in Round 1
This will enable prompt verification of a requirement from the Board. But then who might they make their next selection at 24th overall? Well, it looks like Feldman may have landed a potential hidden gem talent that may still be available at the end of Round 1.
“There’s a big need for a receiver to help fuel a questionable offense. Casey Concepcion’s wheels should help a lot,” Feldman said of the Texas A&M star. “This guy has great playmaking ability. He’s stronger than you think at 6-0, 196. In 2023, he was the ACC Rookie of the Year at NC State, with 839 receiving yards and 320 rushing yards, averaging nearly eight yards per carry.
He said, “Last season at A&M, he averaged 14 yards per offensive touch. As a punt returner he is a terror for opponents, averaging 18.2 yards and two carries for a touchdown in 2025.”
Feldman also said the junior would have moved up in Round 1, but big inning drops are a problem against his game right now. Last season he had seven. Still, he could fill two big needs in 2026 by providing a big-play threat in the pass game as well as a game breaker on special teams.
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