Spencer Fano — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

In this draft, this is not an ideal spot for quarterback or offensive line, but Fano might offer the best potential of anyone available as a pass protector.

The rebuild is ongoing in Cleveland, as the Browns have holes throughout the roster with no clear-cut answer at quarterback or left tackle. That leads to yet another "best player available" approach.

Fano has experience at both left and right tackle as a three-year starter who allowed only three sacks in his past 24 starts. He could be the replacement for free agent Jack Conklin at right tackle, but he offers the flexibility to start on the left side if Dawand Jones doesn't return to form after suffering a torn hamstring and a torn lateral collateral ligament this season.

Fano is an athletic, technically sound right tackle who plays with a strong base, quick feet and excellent balance in pass protection. He consistently mirrors speed rushers, handles stunts with patience and control and redirects smoothly against bendy edge defenders. While not an overpowering mauler, he anchors effectively and rarely gets knocked off his spot. In the run game, Fano thrives in wide-zone schemes, using his mobility to reach the second level and finish blocks.

The Browns could certainly go with a weapon at receiver, but I am worried about their offensive line. Fano didn't have as strong a 2025 campaign compared to his previous body of work, but he still recorded PFF run-blocking and pass-blocking grades above 80.0. New Cleveland head coach Todd Monken will likely see that group as a priority to upgrade for the short term and long term.

The Browns are starting over at head coach (again), and this feels like another situation that will not be very friendly toward a young QB, be it Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel or a new face. Cleveland still needs so much help offensively that it'd be smart to spend these precious assets on its core.

Fano is my favorite offensive lineman in the draft. He's an outstanding athlete, with potential as a right or left tackle.

The Cardinals must determine if Kyler Murray remains the franchise quarterback. If his time in the desert is indeed done, as many have speculated, the lack of QB depth in the 2026 draft class could prompt the team to look elsewhere for help at the game's most important position. In this case, Arizona adds a foundational piece to its struggling offensive line, which contributed to a 38.7% pressure allowed rate -- the fourth-highest mark in the league in 2025, per Next Gen Stats.

The big question is who will be playing quarterback for the Cardinals in 2026, but there's no clear QB answer for them at this point in the draft. They make a selection that will benefit whoever ends up under center. Fano has the versatility to play four different spots on the O-line (all but center) if needed.