The rumors linking Dallas and Cleveland earlier this week felt like a classic case of draft season smoke. In CBS Sports' latest 2026 mock draft, they spun this "what-if" into reality.
Browns GM Andrew Berry loves dealing draft picks. It was just last year that he made the mega trade with Jacksonville, which resulted in this extra first rounder at No. 24.
Now this mock lays out a scenario where Berry makes another draft day splash by moving down from the six hole. Let's look at the trade and the two picks, followed by my opinion for each.
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TRADE
It's a blockbuster! The Dallas Cowboys persuade Cleveland to move up from No. 12 to sixth overall, and grab Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.
No. 12 (mock trade with Cowboys)
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State (6'2", 200-lbs)
"Cleveland's long-term plan at quarterback remains unknown, but it is unlikely to be on the roster. It would be wise to accumulate future resources to potentially make a move in upcoming draft years. Dallas is more focused on the present, so it parts with future resources (No. 12 overall and two future second-round picks) in exchange for No. 6 overall and future fourth- and sixth-round picks. It is a reasonable trade considering the Browns still address one of their two biggest needs (wide receiver and offensive line)."
Analysis
If Berry makes a deal like this it better include an extra first round pick. Either Dallas' second first rounder this year at No. 20, or a first in 2027 to go along with an additional second round selection. As far as taking Tyson here, the talent I like...the injury history I don't.
monroe freeling
No. 24 (via Jacksonville)
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia (6'7", 315-lbs)
"After trading back in the first round, the Browns selected Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. Every starter along the Cleveland offensive line is slated to hit free agency this offseason, so that is a critical area to address as well. Monroe Freeling is a developing option for blindside protection."
Analysis
The way his stock keeps rising, after the scouting combine Freeling may need to be taken in this mock 12 spot instead. In that case, I'd swing back at No. 24 and choose the wide receiver here. A big, fast playmaker like Denzel Boston or Malachi Fields would be a fantastic fit.
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