Dane Brugler: I think it'd be awfully hard to pass on Carnell Tate; there's a chance he might not be on the board at No. 6

Afternoon Drive on The Fan11mApril 8, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Afternoon Drive on The Fan, Dane Brugler joins host Kyle Wright to discuss the Cleveland Browns' upcoming No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Brugler emphasizes that while the Browns have multiple needs—particularly at offensive tackle and wide receiver—Carnell Tate emerges as a top-tier option, potentially the best player available at that spot. He praises Tate’s elite route-running, contested catch ability, and rare drop-free performance, calling him a 'vertical weapon' who could transform the Browns' passing game. Brugler also weighs in on Spencer Fano and Monroe Freeling as offensive line prospects, favoring Fano for his combine performance and physical tools despite concerns about his college position. He dismisses Ty Simpson as too risky at No. 24 and Jeremiah Love at No. 6 as surprising, given the team’s offensive line and passing game instability. The conversation wraps with a look at potential second-round targets, including edge rushers and wide receivers. Brugler’s insights are grounded in deep scouting, player evaluation, and realistic team needs, offering a balanced, data-informed perspective on the draft landscape.

Key Takeaways
1

Carnell Tate is the top wide receiver in the 2026 draft, with elite route-running, contested catch ability, and zero drops in 66+ targets.

2

The Browns may be reluctant to draft a running back at No. 6 due to unresolved offensive line and passing game needs.

3

Spencer Fano is favored over Monroe Freeling for the Browns’ left tackle need, despite positional concerns, due to superior combine performance and physical tools.

4

Ty Simpson is considered too risky to draft at No. 24 due to limited experience and the high stakes of a first-round quarterback pick.

5

The Browns should consider trading back if they don’t find a clear top-tier player at No. 6, especially with multiple needs across the roster.

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Introducing Dane Brugler and The Beast

Host Kyle Wright welcomes Dane Brugler to discuss the latest edition of The Beast, a comprehensive NFL draft resource available exclusively on The Athletic, highlighting its 2,000+ rankings, 400+ player profiles, and new video analysis features.

1:56
4 min

Browns' No. 6 Pick: Wide Receiver or Tackle?

I think it'd be awfully hard to pass on Carnell Tate; there's a chance he might not be on the board at No. 6.

Highlight
5:30
5 min

Carnell Tate: The Top Wide Receiver Prospect

He's one of the best sideline receivers that I've scouted... and he doesn't drop the football.

Highlight
10:00
2 min

Offensive Line and Draft Strategy

Brugler compares Spencer Fano and Monroe Freeling, favoring Fano for his physical tools and combine performance. He also dismisses Ty Simpson and Jeremiah Love as early picks, citing risk and team needs. The episode concludes with second-round target suggestions.

High-Impact Quotes
I think it'd be awfully hard to pass on Carnell Tate; there's a chance he might not be on the board at No. 6.
Dane Brugler2:00
Viral: 85.0
He's one of the best sideline receivers that I've scouted... and he doesn't drop the football.
Dane Brugler3:35
Viral: 80.0
If they draft an offensive lineman at six, I would be surprised. I would bet it'd be Spencer Fano over Monroe Freeling.
Dane Brugler10:24
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Host

Kyle Wright

Guest

Dane Brugler
Topics Discussed
NFL Draft Strategy90%Cleveland Browns Draft Needs85%Wide Receiver Prospects80%Offensive Line Evaluation75%Quarterback Draft Risks70%Player Comparison and Scouting65%Trade-Up Potential60%Draft Combine Performance55%
People & Brands

Cleveland Browns

organization

15xPositive

Dane Brugler

person

12xPositive

Carnell Tate

person

10xPositive

The Beast

media

8xPositive

Spencer Fano

person

8xPositive

Monroe Freeling

person

6xNeutral

The Athletic

organization

6xPositive

Ty Simpson

person

5xNegative

Jeremiah Love

person

4xNeutral

Will Campbell

person

2xPositive

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