After drafting both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in 2025, the Cleveland Browns are projected to pass on both for the starting role and find themselves cellar dwellers again after the 2025 season, earning them the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.
But, in a twist, rather than selecting Clemson's Cade Klubnik at No. 1 as some have already speculated, they go a different direction per ProFootballNetwork.com in its latest 2026 three-round NFL Mock Draft.
1) Cleveland Browns
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
California vs Auburn
Sep 7, 2024; Auburn, Alabama, USA; California Golden Bears quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws a pass against the Auburn Tigers during the first quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
John Reed-Imagn Images
"Fernando Mendoza may not be a household name right now, but by the start of the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, he’ll be one of the most highly sought-after prospects," PFN wrote. "While at Cal in 2024, Mendoza flashed natural playmaking ability and a powerful arm. If the Cleveland Browns are resetting at quarterback, taking a player with tools is the route."
33) Cleveland Browns
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) blocks former Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mason Graham
Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) blocks former Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mason Graham
© Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
65) Cleveland Browns
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Oct 12, 2024; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) catches a touchdown pass as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Deshaun Lee (rear) defends during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium.
Oct 12, 2024; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) catches a touchdown pass as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Deshaun Lee (rear) defends during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium.
Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
If this becomes reality, then the Browns will probably undergo an organization-wide change in personnel, including head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry.
Amid rumors that Deshaun Watson could return before the end of the season, the last thing that Cleveland needs is to miss on their two draft picks from 2025.
It would set the franchise back several years and perpetuate the theory that that's where quarterbacks go to die.
Aside from that, Kadyn Proctor and Denzel Boston could turn into real players in the league eventually. But this early in the process, we have absolutely no idea who they'll start their careers with.
But it's fun to talk about.