The Cleveland Browns
finished 30th in total offense last season, with the passing game particularly struggling, as they finished second-to-last in the NFL. It was clear the main objective this offseason was to bolster that side of the ball, and they accomplished that goal by making a few moves in free agency along the offensive line and drafting both KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston in the 2026 NFL Draft.According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, this talented duo could be on its way to leading the Browns in receiving in 2026:
Who knows how productive this passing offense can even be, given the grim reality of the Browns' quarterback situation. But to the extent that anyone's catching passes in Cleveland, rookies Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion look like
they'll be important parts of the offense right away.
Concepcion is an elusive route runner and run-after-catch guy who could frustrate defenses if Cleveland can get him the ball quickly. He was so good throughout August that he won the Maurice Bassett Award, which the Cleveland media gives annually to the Browns' top rookie performer in training camp. Meanwhile, the 6-4 Boston profiles as a traditional "X" receiver who can win on the boundaries with his size and physicality. Jerry Jeudy is still there, the Browns still like Isaiah Bond, and second-year tight end Harold Fannin Jr. can be used in a variety of roles. But the rookie WRs have been camp standouts, and I don't believe coach Todd Monken will hesitate to ask a lot of them right away.
This offense is still likely to struggle in 2026, but the passing game should take a step forward, despite having arguably the worst quarterback room in the NFL. Playing from behind most of the season will elevate some numbers, sure, but there is a realistic pathway to Graziano's bold prediction coming true.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: ESPN has high expectations for their rookie wide receivers
