It’s no secret that the Cleveland Browns have to revamp the offensive line this offseason, and they’ll have to attack it in both free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft.
Though everybody has been talking about
Francis Mauigoa, Spencer Fano, and Monroe Freeling as of late, Florida’s Austin Barber shouldn’t be completely ignored. Barber was consistently rated as a top 40-50 player in the class heading into the 2025 season, and just because the Gators had a bad year this season, he’s been completely forgotten about.
Yes, he wasn’t as good in 2025 as he was in 2024 (when he was one of the top offensive tackles in college football), but he was still just as dominant in most aspects.
He has elite size and one of the most beautiful pass sets that you’ll ever see, consistently keeping a wide base as he glides through 45-degree sets. His above-average grip strength and hand placement have been his calling cards throughout his collegiate career, being able to lock up edge rushers early on in the rep.
His ability to consistently mirror defenders, despite being densely built is incredibly impressive, and he’s one of the most fun left tackles to watch on film as a run blocker.
Barber’s an excellent zone blocker both in 1-on-1 situations and when comboing downfield. Having such a thick, stocky build makes this aspect even more impressive and speaks to his overall athleticism at the position.
If things play out the way they’re currently heading when it comes to where he could be available in April’s draft, Cleveland might be able to find a starting-quality left tackle in Barber in the third round.
Current NFL Draft projection: Rounds 3-4
