The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2026 NFL Draft with needs at two major positions: offensive line and wide receiver. Thankfully, this year’s class is expected to be filled with quality options at both positions in each round.
One specific player seems to be a perfect fit for what Todd Monken is doing in the “Z” and that’s Oklahoma State WR Dion Burks.
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The 5-foot-10, 180-pound receiver had a big day at the NFL combine, posting top marks in the 40-yard dash (4.3 flat), vertical jump (42.5 inches) and bench press (26 reps). Yes, you read that right, he was benched more than a lot of defensive linemen who weighed over 100 pounds more than he did.
Despite being so light, he’s pure muscle and is incredibly explosive off the break after choking up and making cuts on short to intermediate routes. There are few receivers in this year’s class who can run slant routes for 5 to 7 yards better than him, and while that may not sound too exciting, every quarterback will aspire to have a player like Burks who runs quick-game routes.
Regardless of testing numbers, his physical limitations will certainly hinder his overall draft stock, but he could be the best player at his position in Rounds 4-5. Cleveland will likely target someone like Burks in its search for a second wide receiver, hoping to land a receiver as early as the first or second round.
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Burks will provide Todd Monken with a similar Zay FlowersMonken utilized him perfectly the past few seasons in Baltimore. A playmaker who can move around and is very effective in tunnel screens, different “dagger” concepts and bubble screens.
The Browns definitely need some help with their explosiveness, and Burks will undoubtedly provide some potential there.
