The Cleveland Browns are widely expected to target an offensive tackle early in the 2026 NFL Draft, a move reflected in nearly every mock draft. But could they double down on their line rebuild by also hunting for a developmental swing tackle in the mid-rounds? One analyst believes that's a smart strategy, pointing to a massive prospect as the perfect fit.

NFL Draft analyst Justin Melo, identifying ideal developmental fits for each team, has paired the Browns with Miami's mammoth offensive tackle, Markel Bell. Bell's physical profile is staggering: at 6-foot-9 and 346 pounds, his combine measurements land in the 97th percentile or above. He adds enormously long, 36.5-inch arms and a 98th percentile wingspan, giving him the raw, toolsy frame that scouts dream of developing.

This potential move makes strategic sense for Cleveland. With starting tackle Dawand Jones entering a contract year and battling injuries throughout his young career, securing both a future starter and a reliable swing tackle would solidify a unit that has been plagued by depth issues and significant injuries.

Melo notes the Browns have done their homework, spending considerable pre-draft time studying Bell, a former JUCO player who showed improvement in 2026. Currently ranked around 140th on consensus boards, Bell represents a potential Day 3 steal who could be drafted in addition to a higher-profile lineman.

But what does he offer on the field? Analyst Cory Kinnan of Draft on Draft ranks Bell as his eighth-best tackle in the class, tiered as a "Solid Swing Tackle option." Kinnan highlights that while Bell's foot speed is what you'd expect for a man his size, his massive 36-inch arms provide a critical margin for error in pass protection, allowing him to recover and control defenders. For a Browns team looking to build a deep, physical offensive line, investing in a high-upside project like Markel Bell could pay major dividends down the road.