The Opening Drive 4/15: The "My Guys" Mock Draft - Talent, Swagger, Passion and Identity

A mock draft using just "my guys" from the 2026 NFL Draft. Plus a potential trend with late draft capitol.

Apr 15, 2026

∙ Paid

If the Browns are committed to improving their offense, this blueprint should guide their approach. With ten days until the draft, it is essential to use premium picks on offensive upgrades. A decisive, strategic focus on offense must be the top priority.

No more wishing and hoping—internal development alone won’t suddenly solve everything. The Browns must show a real commitment to building a functional offense that gives the quarterback answers and lets the system work the way it’s designed. Too often, this side of the ball has felt hard to operate, requiring everything to go perfectly rather than generating easy opportunities.

With that in mind, these are my guys—some of my favorite players in the entire draft, all connected by a shared trait. I gravitate toward physical, in-your-face players who will shape this team’s identity on both sides of the ball. Think Martin Emerson Jr. energy: players who combine swagger with talent and fierce passion for the team and city.

As far as draft philosophy, you will note an approach here that could be popular around the league this year. This draft has a strong, deep middle class, where teams believe they can find real contributors. Don’t be surprised to see teams package later picks to move into that window, knowing there’s a noticeable drop-off in usable talent once you get deeper into Day 3. This mock leans directly into that philosophy.

R1 (6) – WR Carnell Tate | Ohio State (6’3”, 195) | No RAS

Carnell Tate is widely viewed as one of the safest receivers in this class, and the league sentiment reflects that. Tate is smooth, fast, and has exceptional hands and ball skills. Matt Waldman came on the show with Jake and raved about him, even comparing him to Justin Jefferson.

Tate’s tape shows he wins with pacing, route detail, and body control. He creates intermediate separation and tracks the ball well, giving quarterbacks an easy target.

Browns Fit: This is exactly what the Browns’ receiver room lacks: consistency and dependability. In Todd Monken’s system, where spacing and timing are critical, Tate profiles as a high-volume, chain-moving target who can quickly become the focal point of the passing game. At six overall, he feels like the best option for a team in need of playmakers.

R1 (24) – OT Blake Miller | Clemson (6’7”, 317) | RAS: 9.90

Blake Miller is trusted because of his clean game. He excels in pass protection, has improved each college season, and is a terrific athlete with quick feet. He rarely loses due to superb lateral agility and balance. He must improve in the run game, but at worst, he is a starting right tackle and could be a team’s long-term left tackle.

Browns Fit: This is a stabilizer. Cleveland needs reliability up front, and Miller gives them a plug-and-play option who fits a pass-heavy approach without requiring extra help. I like Miller a lot, and while he may not possess the ceiling of a Freeling, he is ready to contribute right away and will work hard to elevate his game.

R2 (39) – OT Caleb Lomu | Utah (6’6”, 313) | RAS: 9.77

Evaluators highlight his movement and recovery skills. He is a second-tackle prospect with elite athleticism, showing dominant pass-protection reps. He must improve run blocking and overall consistency, but has a high ceiling on the line if technique develops.

Browns Fit: Lomu offers Cleveland versatility across the offensive line and fits seamlessly into a system valuing athletic pass protectors. With proper development, this pick could profoundly influence the class. Securing two prospects at tackle is the correct strategy.

Below you’ll find the latest in the BFB catalog for supporters to dig into. Click the link to become a supporter if you haven’t already, and enjoy all the latest from Browns Film Breakdown.

Latest Podcasts:

Latest Articles:

Latest Film Rooms:

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Browns Film Breakdown to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.