Connor Rogers: Browns positioned well with picks 6 and 24

In this episode of Afternoon Drive on The Fan, host Kyle Wright welcomes NFL analyst Conor Rogers from NBC Sports' NFL Stock Exchange Show to discuss the Cleveland Browns' draft strategy with picks 6 and 24 in the 2026 NFL Draft. Rogers critiques the idea of the Raiders starting Fernando Mendoza as their quarterback, advocating instead for immediate playing time, while expressing skepticism about Ty Simpson being a top-20 pick, calling him a high-end Bo Nix-level prospect but not a first-round fit. He argues the Browns should prioritize an offensive difference maker at pick 6—favoring receivers like Carnell Tate or Jordan Tyson, or even considering a tackle like Monroe Freeling or Caleb Lomu at pick 24. Rogers emphasizes the Browns' strong positioning to build through the draft, especially with their ability to target elite talent at both picks and address needs like cornerback or offensive line depth. He also discusses the quarterback class, calling it weak and suggesting the Browns should consider flyers like Garrett Nussmeier or Carson Beck in later rounds. The conversation underscores a strategic, development-focused approach over immediate quarterback fixes. Key takeaways include: The Browns should avoid drafting Ty Simpson in the top 20, as he’s not a top-tier prospect; Carnell Tate offers elite upside as a number one receiver with elite route-running and tracking ability; Caleb Lomu is a high-upside, versatile offensive tackle with room to grow; the Browns have flexibility to target multiple positions with their two first-round picks; and the quarterback class is weak, making late-round projects a more realistic path. Rogers concludes that the Browns are well-positioned to build through the draft with smart, long-term planning.