5 NFL free agents the Browns must target from ESPN’s 2026 best available list originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Browns enter the 2026 offseason with a clear directive: upgrade the offense. ESPN recently released free agency tiers, which highlight several playmakers and protectors who could immediately stabilize Cleveland’s roster.
Here are five targets that make the most sense for GM Andrew Berry to go after:
Wide Receivers
Romeo Doubs (Packers)- 6’2”, 205-lbs, 26-years old:
Doubs is coming off a solid 2025 campaign where CBS Sports praised his "red-zone mastery" and reliable hands. He’s a polished route-runner who doesn't need to be the focal point to be effective. For a Browns team looking for a consistent chain-mover opposite Jerry Jeudy, Doubs provides the dependable floor this offense has lacked.
Projected average annual salary range: $12-$21 million
More: Browns draft targets: 5 must-watch offensive linemen at the NFL Combine
Rashid Shaheed (Seahawks)- 6’0”, 180-lbs, 27-years old:
If the Browns want to unlock the deep ball, Shaheed is the answer. Fox Sports tracked him as one of the most efficient vertical threats of the 2025 season, noting his ability to stretch defenses and create space underneath. His elite speed would give Cleveland a "home run" element that forces safeties to play deep. Shaheed’s success as a returner would be a huge bonus as well.
Projected average annual salary range: $6-$12 million
Offensive Linemen
Rasheed Walker (OT, Packers)- 6’6”, 324-lbs, 26-years old:
Walker’s stock skyrocketed last season. ESPN’s pass-block win rate metrics ranked him in the top 10 for tackles in 2025. With the Browns’ recent struggles with tackle depth and injuries, Walker offers a young, ascending blindside protector who is just entering his prime.
Projected average annual salary range: $15-$25 million
Sean Rhyan (C/G, Packers)- 6’5”, 321-lbs, 25-years old:
The Sporting News highlighted Rhyan’s 2025 season for his "brute strength and durability." He’s a versatile interior piece who can slide between guard and center. Cleveland needs a physical presence to re-establish the identity of their run game. Although criticized for being inconsistent, Rhyan seems to fit that tough AFC North mold.
Projected average annual salary range: $2-$4 million
Tight End
Noah Fant (Bengals)- 6’4”, 249-lbs, 28-years old:
Fant finished 2025 with a career-high catch rate, with PFF noting his improved impact as a blocker. Pairing Fant with Harold Fannin Jr. would give the Browns one of the most athletic "12 personnel" looks in the league, creating mismatches that most linebackers simply can't cover.
Projected average annual salary range: $2-$5 million
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