The Cleveland Browns got a good deal on second-guessing during the 2026 NFL Draft. Not only did they move down from No. 6 overall, but they also selected Spencer Fano at No. 9 and still have every other offensive tackle prospect on the board.
It was a somewhat risky move, as the Browns intended to move Fano to left after spending his last two college seasons at right tackle in Utah. Cleveland inserted Fano into the starting lineup almost immediately, and entering Week 6 of the season, it couldn’t have gone any better.
Fano is quietly proving the Browns right as he ranks among the best pass blocking linemen in the NFL according to Gridiron Grading.
“NFL OT Pass blocked for 5 weeks. Also mentions Spencer Fano. Looks like a home run option for Cleveland,” Gridiron Grading wrote.
NFL OT Pass Blocking for 5 weeks
Amarius Mims has been the cleanest pass blocker in OT ever in the league.
Spencer Fano is also noteworthy. A home run seems like an option for Cleveland. pic.twitter.com/7c22klYl8g
— Gridiron Grading (@GridironGrading) October 17, 2026
In that chart, Fano allowed 10 player pressures in nearly 200 pass blocks. Browns veteran right tackle Tytus Howard allowed close to 15 pressures on nearly 175 snaps after missing some time with an injured knee in Week 5 against the New York Jets.
According to Pro Football Focus, Fano has a pass blocking average of 70.9, which ranks 33rd among 72 qualified offensive tackles. He allowed just one sack and no quarterback hits and committed just one penalty.
Those would be impressive stats for any offensive lineman, let alone a rookie making the transition to one of the toughest positions to play in the NFL. Along with right guard Austin Barber, a third-round pick in last year’s draft, the Browns appear to have landed two solid players for years to come.
By comparison, Francis Mauigoa, the No. 10 pick and traded to safety by the New York Giants, has 43.4 pass blocks. Kadin Proctor, the 12th pick of the Miami Dolphins, also plays guard and has a 60.7 rating.
So, at least for now, it appears the Browns made a wise choice with Fano, who should continue to improve throughout the campaign.
NEXT:
NFL announces fine for Carson Schwesinger