The Cleveland Browns are likely to look for a quarterback in the 2026 NFL draft, with a focus on selecting Drew Allar in the middle rounds rather than targeting a top prospect early. After finishing the 2025 season with a 5-12 record and replacing Kevin Stefanski with Todd Monken as head coach, the Browns remain uncertain about the future of their quarterback position, despite having Deshaun Watson leading the team currently.
Prioritizing Draft Strategy: Why Drew Allar Rises Above Ty Simpson
The Browns’ quarterback situation continues to be unresolved after Shedeur Sanders’ underwhelming performance as the starter in 2025. With a weak quarterback class ahead and holding the fifth overall pick, Cleveland is unlikely to select a quarterback early. According to Browns reporter Tony Grossi, the organization appears more inclined to take a late-round chance on Drew Allar rather than using a first-round pick on Ty Simpson, who is viewed as the second-best quarterback prospect behind Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.
Nothing has changed my opinion that offensive line and wide receiver will be the top draft priorities. And when it comes to the quarterback room, I’ll say this: there’s a greater chance of the Browns drafting Drew Allar than there is of Ty Simpson. […] I think it’s just a matter of taking a flyer late, as opposed to devoting a first-round pick to Ty Simpson.
– Tony Grossi, Browns Reporter
Allar, recovering from a season-ending ankle injury in 2025, impressed scouts at the NFL Combine with his throwing ability and on-field presence. Though his mental approach needs refining, his arm strength and experience as a starter over 45 games at Penn State make him an intriguing prospect, especially since higher-ranked quarterbacks do not guarantee success.
Evaluating Drew Allar’s Potential and Draft Outlook
While Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the likely first overall pick, and Ty Simpson may still go in the first round, Allar is projected to be available in the mid rounds, which aligns well with Cleveland’s strategy of minimizing high draft capital risk. His track record includes 73 total touchdowns and consistent performance, earning a B- grade in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons according to the PFSN CFB QB Impact Metric, with a peak 2024 season that helped Penn State reach the College Football Playoff semifinals.
The Browns’ apparent preference for a mid-round quarterback like Allar reflects the team’s desire to focus their early selections on bolstering the offensive line and wide receiver positions, which are considered more immediate needs to improve overall team performance alongside the continued development of Deshaun Watson.
Implications for the Browns’ Future Quarterback Plans
By targeting Drew Allar later in the draft, Cleveland can potentially develop a quarterback who complements Deshaun Watson without committing significant draft resources. This approach underscores the Browns’ cautious stance toward the uncertain quarterback class and prioritizes strengthening other critical areas of the roster. The success of this strategy could hinge on Allar’s ability to improve his decision-making and adapt mentally to the professional level, while Watson’s ongoing performance will remain central to Cleveland’s offense in the near term.
.@TonyGrossi’s NFL combine takeaway for the Browns:
– OL and WR are still main priorities
– Greater chance the Browns draft Drew Allar than Ty Simpson 😳😳😳 pic.twitter.com/CWKLgkPiXI— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) March 1, 2026
