Browns projected to take under-the-radar QB with No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of a polarizing quarterback battle involving four signal-callers. Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders have battled through the spring and will continue to fight for the starting spot through training camp and pre-season.

With that in mind, Joe DeLeone of PFSN believes the Browns will be drafting No. 1 overall in 2026 and take another quarterback - one that is flying under the radar.

"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, DeLeone writes. "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."

Should the Browns be in this position, once again, it would be hard to see one of Andrew Berry or Kevin Stefanski not getting fired. Time will tell, though, as the Browns continue to try to find their franchise quarterback.

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