The Cleveland Browns are expected to have a revolving door of quarterbacks this upcoming season.
Joe Flacco will be the starter when the Browns open their season against the Cincinnati Bengals, but rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are expected to get opportunities to show what they've got throughout the year.
But the question remains, does Cleveland have their quarterback of the future on the roster? While some may have faith in former Oregon Duck Gabriel and the flashy Sanders, the Browns will likely be keeping an eye on the signal callers of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Browns Predicted to Select Fernando Mendoza in Next Year's Draft
Browns Alchemy of Browns Wire predicts that Cleveland will end up with the third overall pick in next year's draft and select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
"Fernando Mendoza is a traditional drop-back passer in an era of run-first quarterbacks. Mendoza had prototypical size for the position at 6-foot-5, 225 pounds...Mendoza is a deadly field general. The quarterback does a great job of commanding the offense. He has the size, strength, and quickness to stand tall in the pocket and deliver passes as receivers break open." Wrote Browns Alchemy.
With the 2026 draft class expected to have several highly-touted quarterback prospects, such as Mendoza, Garrett Nussemier, Cade Klubnik, and Drew Allar, the article cites Mendoza as a perfect fit for the Browns offense.
"Mendoza isn’t afraid of taking a shot. He’ll step into a hit if he needs the extra split second for his receiver to get open. He’s a smart player who knows the importance of perfect timing in an offense. Mendoza thrives as the epicenter of an offense. He knows how to distribute the ball to his playmakers. He has a great arm and can access every part of the field."
Even if the Browns don't find themselves picking high enough for a quarterback of their liking, they have stocked up on draft picks, including an extra 2026 first-round pick, thanks to trading down in the 2025 NFL Draft with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Regardless, nothing is set in stone as of now, and there is the possibility that one of Gabriel or Sanders impresses in their rookie season and Cleveland feels comfortable moving forward with one of their collegiate stars.
But for now, Browns fans should feel comfortable knowing they have options.