Browns Lock in Rookie Class: Four More Draft Picks Sign, Five of Seven Now Under Contract
The Cleveland Browns progressed steadily in securing their 2026 rookie class on Saturday, signing four additional draft picks to standard four-year contracts. These moves bring the total number of drafted players under contract to five out of seven, with just two remaining unsigned as the team prepares for next week's mandatory minicamp.
For a front office led by general manager Andrew Berry, who emphasizes efficiency and financial prudence, swiftly converting draft selections into signed players sends a clear message that the Browns' rebuild is entering a new developmental phase. Getting rookies on the field to absorb the playbook and compete is as important as completing the necessary paperwork.
The Signings: Who's In the Fold?
The four newly signed rookies include a mix of early- and mid-round selections, all of whom participated in last week's voluntary rookie minicamp. In addition to their first-round picks who inked contracts shortly after the draft, the Browns have now secured deals for:
Round 2, Pick 42: Defensive Lineman - Recognized for his versatile interior pass-rushing and run-stopping ability, this player adds depth to a defensive line that seeks to maintain its aggressiveness. His contract includes a fifth-year team option and standard signing bonuses consistent with his draft position, with base salaries fully guaranteed for the first two seasons.
Round 3, Pick 74: Wide Receiver - A big-bodied receiver who offers a physical presence on the outside, expected to complement speedier teammates and compete for early playing time in three-receiver sets, especially after some veteran departures in free agency.
Round 4, Pick 112: Offensive Guard - A powerful, mauling guard who played left guard throughout college, poised to contribute depth and compete for playing opportunities, especially given the Browns' intent to cultivate young, cost-controlled linemen with experience.
Round 5, Pick 150: Safety - A versatile defensive back capable of playing multiple roles in coverage and contributing on special teams, bolstering the Browns' investment and development focus on the secondary.
With these signings, five of the Browns' seven draft picks are now under contract. The remaining unsigned players--a sixth-round edge rusher and a seventh-round cornerback--are expected to finalize contracts ahead of training camp later this summer.
Why the Delay on the Final Two?
Later-round picks commonly take longer to finalize contracts in the NFL due to administrative processes rather than difficult negotiations. The Collective Bargaining Agreement sets contract parameters tied closely to draft position, minimizing actual bargaining. The holdups generally involve completing physicals, clarifying offset language, and arranging bonus payment structures.
The Browns maintain a track record of signing all rookies prior to training camp, and there is no indication either of these two will hold out. Both have already participated in the rookie minicamp and are expected to sign deals within roughly 10 days.
What This Means for the Browns
Having five rookies under contract before mandatory minicamp is a significant milestone. It enables those players to fully participate in on-field drills and team activities without restriction, accelerating their acclimation to the professional level.
Philosophically, quick contract signings reflect the Browns' commitment to building through their draft classes. Coupled with free agent acquisitions, this approach is central to their sustained competitiveness in the AFC North.
Specifically:
Defensive Line Rotation - The second-round pick should immediately challenge for rotation snaps alongside established Pro Bowlers, aiming for 400-500 snaps as a rookie.
Wide Receiver Competition - The third-round pick has a path to an early role, especially since two veteran receivers are in contract years and the team emphasizes developing young talent.
Offensive Line Depth - The fourth-round guard is a developmental prospect but could challenge for playing time down the line with the probable departure or replacement of veteran guard Brandon Mingo, who enters the final year of his contract.
Safety Depth - The fifth-rounder will likely start on special teams and provide dime package depth but may earn defensive snaps as the season progresses.
Andrew Berry's Offseason Strategy
General manager Andrew Berry has been deliberate and disciplined during the offseason. The 2026 draft illustrated a clear focus on addressing team needs without reaching for players, staying within predetermined value ranges.
Signing rookies promptly is a continuation of Berry's approach to operate efficiently, avoid contract distractions, and empower head coach Todd Monken and his staff to focus on player development and team preparation.
Financially, rookie signing bonuses are fully guaranteed but prorated over four years for salary cap purposes, offering the Browns financial clarity on their remaining cap space, estimated at approximately $8.3 million. This provides flexibility to pursue potential veteran free agents later in the summer, such as a pass rusher or cornerback, particularly once June 1 arrives when certain contract guarantees can be voided.
Coaching Staff Context
It is worth correcting earlier characterizations of the defense. The Browns' defensive coordinator is Mike Rutenberg, who continues to implement a hybrid, aggressive scheme emphasizing versatility on the front seven. References to former defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz are outdated and inaccurate. The current coaching staff also includes Todd Monken as head coach and Travis Switzer as offensive coordinator, maintaining stability into this upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
Mandatory minicamp begins Tuesday, April 28, 2026. All five signed rookies will be able to fully engage in on-field drills and meetings. The two unsigned draft picks may attend meetings and observe practices but will not participate in drills until their contracts are finalized.
Following minicamp, the Browns will proceed through organized team activities (OTAs) and voluntary workouts through early June before fully transitioning into training camp in late July. They aim to have the entire rookie class signed and ready by camp, providing maximum opportunity to compete for roster spots.
The Browns have made the playoffs in three of the last four seasons, a testament to their effective roster-building strategies. With this group of rookies integrating swiftly, the team hopes to sustain and build upon that success. Depth, often overlooked, remains critical in the NFL's long season, and Cleveland appears committed to developing it through its 2026 draft class--one signed contract at a time.
