3 unexpected rookies who could make an immediate impact in 2026 for the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns had one of the more impressive rookie classes of the 2026 NFL Draft. They had four picks in the first two rounds and were able to land valuable upgrades at wide receiver and the offensive line. They added key defensive upgrades to boot, including one prospect out of Toledo. All in all, it's hard to be upset at this crop of prospective rookies. While it's too early to say they're going to be great, the optimism is high for the new crop of young players. 

The Browns didn't just hit early in the draft at spots they needed to. No, GM Andrew Berry made sure the Browns got the most out of every pick he had, and in doing so, may have found players between rounds three through seven that could be impact players right off the bat. 

These are the three we think could make an immediate impact on the team early and often. 

More: Every pick the Cleveland Browns made during the 2026 NFL Draft

1. Taylen Green QB

You can't deny the excitement that Taylen Green brings to the Browns. Never an accurate passer (accuracy for his college career is just 60.1%), Green brings straight speed to the team. Posting a 4.37 40-yard dash, Green is the fastest quarterback drafted into the NFL in over two decades. Green brings speed and agility to a position that has lacked them for a few years, and should the passing game not improve, Green's speed may help where others' throwing may not. That unteachable ability to extend or completely change a play with running abilities is something he possess and he could be a huge factor should everything in front of him fall apart. Even if things go according to play this year and he's not needed under center, his speed allows him to be used in various gadget play scenarios, and that alone makes him a valuable asset. 

2. Austin Barber OT

While the third round may not seem late, the fact that Austin Barber fell that low is shocking. He's a versatile tackle who played both right and left tackle at Florida, while being one of the best overall players at his position in one of the strongest conferences in college football. His pass-blocking game needs some work but Barber could likely come in at any position on the line and immediately make the Browns a significantly better team running the football. 

3. Carsen Ryan TE

Carsen Ryan got dinged in the evaluation process because he's not very fast or tall for a tight end. Yet, he's one of the highest-ranked tight ends according to PFF. He's got solid hands and the ability to be a reliable target underneath. He's also versatile, playing both tight end and running back during his college tenure has made him a natural fit to line up as a fullback or H-Back option should the team need it. Ryan may see action in year one, depending on how head coach Todd Monken decides to design the offense. If it's similiar to his time as the Baltimore Ravens' offensive coordinator, Ryan may see quite a bit of early playing time.

More Browns news:

• Every pick the Cleveland Browns made during the 2026 NFL Draft
• The Cleveland Browns may have nailed the 2026 NFL Draft
• Who is Taylen Green? Meet combine star drafted by Browns to join Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson in QB room
• Dillon Gabriel trade rumors heat up after Browns pick Taylen Green in NFL Draft
• Browns reveal feelings on Taylen Green position change