NFL Draft 2026: Cleveland Browns Select Michigan Quarterback Alex Morgan with First Overall Pick

The Cleveland Browns shocked the football world on Saturday by selecting Michigan quarterback Alex Morgan with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, ending months of speculation about who would claim the top spot in this year's highly anticipated draft class.

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Morgan, who led Michigan to a national championship in 2025 and threw for 3,847 yards with 32 touchdowns last season, beat out projected top pick J.J. Watt Jr. from Ohio State, who ultimately went second to the Washington Commanders. The selection marks the third time in five years that a quarterback has been taken first overall.

"This is a dream come true," Morgan said during his interview on NFL Network. "I've been working toward this moment my entire life. Cleveland has an incredible fan base and I can't wait to get to work with this organization."

The Browns, who finished 4-13 last season and haven't made the playoffs since 2020, are hoping Morgan can be the franchise quarterback they've been searching for since Baker Mayfield was traded in 2022. Team owner Jimmy Haslam expressed confidence in the selection during the press conference.

"We believe Alex is the most talented quarterback in this draft class and possibly the best player in the entire draft," Haslam said. "Our scouts and coaching staff spent countless hours evaluating him, and we have full confidence he's the right person to lead this franchise forward."

The Commanders selected Watt Jr. at number two, while the New England Patriots surprised many by trading up to select Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith third overall. The full draft continues through Sunday with all 32 teams selecting 262 players total.

Several analysts praised the Browns' bold move, noting Morgan's exceptional arm talent and leadership qualities that translated to success at the collegiate level. Others questioned whether Morgan, who struggled with consistency at times against top competition, can adapt to the NFL game.

"Morgan has all the physical tools you want in a franchise quarterback," said ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. "The question is whether he can make the transition from Michigan's run-heavy offense to reading NFL defenses. It'll take time, but the Browns are committed to developing him properly."