The Cleveland Browns officially signed eight of their 10 selections from the 2026 NFL Draft on May 8, 2026. Leading the group is first-round offensive tackle Spencer Fano, taken ninth overall out of Utah. This important milestone puts the Browns in position to fully integrate these rookies into the team's system as training camp approaches.
General manager Andrew Berry continues to shape the roster with a focus on sustainable depth after an aggressive offseason marked by a coaching transition and significant free agent acquisitions. Signing the majority of the draft class cements the shift from draft speculation to tangible roster building.
With the vast majority of rookies under contract, the coaching staff--including head coach Todd Monken, offensive coordinator Travis Switzer, and defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg--can focus on preparing the newcomers within their schemes as summer workouts and camps draw near.
Spencer Fano: The Cornerstone Offensive Tackle
Spencer Fano was the centerpiece of the Browns' 2026 draft class. At 6-foot-5 and 315 pounds, Fano combines a fierce run-blocking style with the agility to handle speedy NFL edge rushers. Considered one of the most polished tackles in the draft, Fano was a value pick at ninth overall out of Utah.
Fano enters a veteran tackle room featuring Tytus Howard, Dawand Jones, and Tyre Phillips, but projects as a future starter--potentially in his rookie season. With Travis Switzer calling the offense, the Browns aim to establish a physical identity on the line, and Fano fits that vision perfectly.
One league source remarked, "He's a guy who plays with a chip on his shoulder--tenacious in the run game and technically sound in pass protection. He's destined to be a long-term starter."
Adding to the offensive line's depth, the Browns brought in veteran guard Teven Jenkins and center Parker Brailsford this offseason, complementing holdovers like Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson. Training camp battles for starting roles along the line are sure to be a focal point.
Completing the Rookie Class
In addition to Fano, the Browns signed seven other draft picks. While the team has not publicly disclosed the full list of signees, reports indicate that five were under contract as of late April. The latest announcement brings the total to eight, which includes three additional rookies beyond those earlier reported, alongside Fano and two later-round picks.
The 10 mid-round selections addressed multiple areas of need. Defensive lineman Mason Graham from Michigan, already on the roster, bolsters the interior front alongside established players Maliek Collins and Mike Hall Jr. The Browns also added secondary depth through cornerback Michael Coats Jr. and safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, both of whom signed undrafted free agent contracts likely included in these recent signings.
Two draft picks remain unsigned, a common scenario especially with late-round selections negotiating contract details. There are no signs of holdouts or disagreements, and given Andrew Berry's reputation for efficient deal-making, these final agreements are expected well before training camp.
Roster Impact
Getting the draft class signed early is about more than paperwork--it provides the coaching staff crucial time to work with rookie talent. With rookie minicamps and organized team activities soon, every practice rep counts.
Offensively, the Browns enter 2026 with QB Shedeur Sanders returning for his second season after being selected second overall in 2025. He will benefit from a revamped supporting cast featuring running backs Quinshon Judkins and Ahmani Marshall, wide receiver Isaiah Bond, and tight end Harold Fannin Jr.--all new additions through the draft or free agency. Fano's presence on the offensive line will be key in protecting Sanders and opening running lanes.
Defensively, the Browns maintain Myles Garrett as the centerpiece of the front seven. Recent roster turnover brings fresh faces like Mason Graham, signaling a youth-oriented defensive foundation designed to keep pace with explosive AFC offenses. Linebacker Carson Schwesinger and defensive end Tyreak Sapp, also rookies, are on the roster though it's unclear if they signed in this wave or earlier.
Contract Terms and Salary Cap
Exact contract terms for the eight rookies have not been disclosed but adhere to the NFL's collective bargaining agreement. First-round picks like Fano receive four-year deals with a fifth-year team option; later-round picks get four-year contracts without the option. Signing bonuses are slotted according to draft positions.
Financially, these signings bring clarity to the Browns' cap situation entering summer. They reportedly hold just over $10 million in effective cap space, reserving $4-5 million for the two unsigned players, in-season injury replacements, and practice squad costs. The team-friendly nature of rookie contracts, with prorated bonuses, helps limit immediate cap impact.
Looking Forward
With eight rookies signed, Cleveland's front office turns attention to the remaining two unsigned draftees and the preparation for training camp, which begins in late July. The upcoming rookie minicamp provides the first opportunity for players like Fano to experience Cleveland's NFL environment.
After years of fluctuating fortunes, this measured approach to drafting and roster building signals stability. Head coach Todd Monken and general manager Andrew Berry are engineering a sustainable foundation, with the current draft class representing a critical piece.
Fans should be excited about what Spencer Fano brings--an aggressive, technically sound player who embodies the physical mindset the Browns desire. If the entire rookie class develops as anticipated, Cleveland's lineup will be better equipped to contend for a playoff spot.
For now, the focus remains on finalizing contracts and integrating talent. Signing eight of 10 picks is a strong step. The last two will likely follow shortly, rounding out a promising 2026 draft class.