With the 170th pick in the 2026 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns added another weapon and some depth behind Harold Fannin Jr., selecting Cincinnati tight end Joe Royer. After starting his career with Ohio State, Royer transferred to UC and had over 900 receiving yards combined the past two seasons, with 521 in 2024 and 416 this past season.

Royer does a good job of finding the soft spot in zone coverage, settling into open areas, and providing a safety valve for his quarterback. He has strong hands, is a natural hands catcher, and doesn't let the ball get into his body or risk dropping it; he plucks the ball out of the air very well.

Royer is a good route runner who can deceive defensive backs with his ability to throttle up and down and change direction. As a blocker, Royer needs to add strength and work on his technique, although he is a willing blocker and gives it everything he's got. He's also an average NFL athlete, but he's good enough to be a reliable second tight end behind Harold Fannin Jr.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Grading the selection of TE Joe Royer