2026 NFL Draft Buzz: Browns hold draft power while Carson Beck’s stock is inflated

The quarterback position will be one of the more compelling storylines in the 2026 NFL Draft. After a weak 2025 class that saw just one quarterback go in the top 20, this cycle brings significantly more talent. In this week’s Draft Buzz, we spotlight one overrated quarterback prospect, make the case for Cleveland to finally land its franchise QB, and evaluate an ACC signal-caller whose stock could soar with one key fix.

In addition to taking a closer look at the quarterback class, this week’s article also spotlights LSU linebacker Harold Perkins as he works to bounce back from a torn ACL, breaks down Penn State’s addition of dynamic slot receiver Trebor Pena, and examines why Arch Manning is likely to return to Texas, along with more topics from around the college football landscape.

2026 NFL Draft news and notes

Disagree strongly

CBS Sports recently released its first mock draft for the 2026 NFL Draft, and one projection I strongly disagree with is their evaluation of Miami quarterback Carson Beck, whom they have going fourth overall to the New York Jets. I’m much lower on Beck and currently have him graded as a third-round prospect heading into the season. One of my main concerns is his questionable leadership—Georgia appeared to play with noticeably more energy and urgency when Gunner Stockton filled in during Beck’s injury. On top of that, Beck is coming off his worst season, where he forced throws far too often, leading to 12 interceptions. As a passer, he also lacks standout traits. He’s not mobile and struggles to create plays when the pocket collapses or things break down around him.

Browns in great position to add top signal caller

The Browns are setting themselves up nicely to land a franchise quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft, with names like Drew Aller and Garrett Nussmeier potentially in play. They hold their own first-round pick, which is likely to be a top-10 selection given their lack of offensive playmakers and a projected quarterback battle between Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett. Additionally, they acquired the Jaguars’ first-round pick in a draft-day trade, and with Jacksonville also expected to struggle, that could give Cleveland two top-10 picks. This draft capital would put the Browns in prime position to select a quarterback or even package the picks to move up the board if needed.

Concerns about Harold Perkins

LSU linebacker Harold Perkins has some of the highest upside in the 2026 NFL Draft class, but there are a few red flags heading into the season. The biggest is the torn ACL he suffered in Week 4 last year. He’s expected to be cleared by June, but it’s still something to watch. Beyond the injury, he needs to show he can return to his 2022 form, when his 91.0 pass-rush grade led all Power Five linebackers (per Pro Football Focus). Effort is another question mark; scouts will be watching to see if he brings consistent intensity on every snap.

Arch Manning expected to stay in school

Don’t look for Arch Manning in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Texas quarterback is likely to return to school, and the reasoning is straightforward. He’ll finish the season with barely over a year of college experience, not nearly enough to be NFL-ready by his family’s standards. Education has always been a priority in the Manning household, and earning his degree will carry weight. Third, you can bet uncles Peyton and Eli will advise him to stick around another year—more college experience will only make the NFL transition smoother.

Top transfer offensive tackle done for the year

Virginia suffered a major setback with the news that top transfer offensive tackle Monroe Mills will miss the upcoming season after tearing his ACL. Mills, who was ranked the No. 8 overall player and top offensive tackle in the portal by On3Sports, transferred in from Louisville, where he earned an impressive 82.5 grade from Pro Football Focus and allowed just one sack last season. It remains to be seen whether Mills will return to school in 2026 or declare for the NFL Draft despite recovering from a significant injury.

Cowboys will be paying close attention to wide receivers

Look for the Dallas Cowboys to closely monitor the wide receiver position this fall, especially after failing to draft one in the 2025 NFL Draft or land a top-tier free agent. With no clear option opposite CeeDee Lamb and Jalen Tolbert headed for free agency, the need could become even more urgent. One name to watch: Ohio State’s rising star Carnell Tate.

Penn State adds one of the top slot receivers

Penn State has landed Trebor Pena, formerly of Syracuse, a dynamic playmaker who projects as one of the top slot receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft. A second-team All-ACC selection last season, Pena led the conference with 84 receptions and added 12 carries, showing off his versatility. His impact extends beyond the offense—he’s also a proven return specialist, having led the ACC in kickoff return average (27.2 yards) back in 2022. Quick, elusive, and multidimensional, Pena brings immediate value to both the receiving corps and special teams.

If Kyron Drones improves in this area, his NFL Draft Stock will soar

One of the more athletic quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft is Virginia Tech’s Kyron Drones, who shows the mobility to pick up yards on the ground and be a dangerous threat in the sprint-out passing game. However, one area he must improve, according to BQA, is his footwork. Drones tends to get happy feet in the pocket and often hops instead of planting his feet, which severely impacts his accuracy. He also needs to do a better job of aligning his feet to his target, a fundamental adjustment that would greatly enhance his consistency. If he can clean up this part of his game, Drones has the arm strength, athleticism, and playmaking ability to hear his name called within the top four rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft.

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