Sports · 13 April, 2026 · 1 min read
Cleveland Browns Target Offensive Linemen Like Monroe Freeling In 2026 NFL Draft
Browns plan offensive upgrades in the 2026 draft, aiming for at least one starter. Risers linked to Browns include offensive-line options.
Angle and scope of coverage.
2 of 3 outlets skipped it: national Today claims there will be five 'draft risers' the Browns could select in the 2026 NFL Draft..
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ESPN
“"You're building it, essentially, for a year every year," Peters said. "From the spring to the season to the combine, pro days, visits and back around to the next spring, when the scouts are looking at the calendar to see the first places they're going to go. The real movement for players and grades in that time probably comes long before people might think it does."”Read the original ↗
National Today
“The Cleveland Browns could target these NFL 'draft risers' in 2026 including Monroe Freeling, Jeff Caldwell and more.”Read the original ↗
ESPN emphasizes the overall process behind risers (calendar, scouting, predraft work), while National Today frames the same concept as concrete targets for one team.
Browns' Offensive Overhaul
The Browns are heading into the draft with a clear directive to improve offensively.
“The Browns have hosted first-round left tackle prospects Monroe Freeling of Georgia, Kadyn Proctor of Alabama and Caleb Lomu of Utah for top 30 pre-draft visits”
They have brought in three new offensive linemen expected to be starters.
The Browns plan to draft multiple linemen, with one likely in the first round.
ESPN identified Monroe Freeling as a major riser with rare fluidity for his size.
The Browns have hosted top 30 visits for Freeling, Proctor, and Lomu.
Freeling's Rise
Freeling emerged as one of the best offensive tackle prospects after making 13 starts.
Scouts noted his pass-protection technique improved in real time.
He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.93 seconds and moves like a tight end in space.
Freeling credited yoga for helping with injury prevention and mindfulness.
His rise exemplifies the multi-month process of draft board movement.
Safety Thieneman's Ascendancy
Thieneman has moved from a mid-to-late Day 2 pick into the first round.
“Thieneman has an extensive résumé as a three-year starter with 302 tackles and eight interceptions”
He has 302 tackles and eight interceptions in his career.
He ran a 4.37-second 40-yard dash and had a 41-inch vertical at the combine.
An AFC area scout praised his instincts and ability to read offenses.