Browns NFL draft: Biggest impact after the 1st round picks

With two first-round selections in the 2026 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns hope that Spencer Fano and KC Concepcion will make a huge impact. A great deal of attention is given to the first-round draft picks, but numerous other selections are made over the remaining two days of the draft. Of those taken in the remaining rounds, which rookies will make the biggest impact on the Browns this season?

WR Denzel Boston

Many believed that Boston would be a first-round pick, so it was a fantastic pick-up for Cleveland to acquire him in the second round. He’s well-positioned to contribute right away due to the team’s limited depth at that position. Given his skill set, he has an opportunity to be one of the top receivers on the Browns’ roster.

S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren

Many draft experts believe that McNeil-Warren is one of the steals of this year’s NFL draft. Cleveland was fortunate to land him at pick 58, especially since many mock drafts projected him as a mid-to-late first-round selection. With his versatility, the Browns can use him in the secondary in a wide range of ways, allowing him to make an immediate impact on this defense.

C Parker Brailsford

While a fifth-round pick, Brailsford might have the best shot at starting right away, among these three options, and playing the most snaps. A center isn’t always an “impact” player, until his play is a problem, but Brailsford could allow Elgton Jenkins to play his best position, guard, and set the Browns line up nicely.

This is the second season in a row that critics are largely pleased with Cleveland’s draft selections. The 2025 class was praised before the season, and they also produced well on the field. Now it is time to see if this 2026 class can do the same.