Former Alabama offensive lineman has ‘legit’ chance to start for Browns as a rookie, per report

Dec 19, 2025; Norman, OK, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Parker Brailsford (72) against the Oklahoma Sooners during the CFP National Playoff First Round at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns drafted Parker Brailsford in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 146 overall pick.

Brailford started at center for the Crimson during the 2024 and 2025 seasons after transferring from Washington. He started for the Huskies in 2023 when Kalen DeBoer led Washington to the College Football Playoff National Championship game.

Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com  reported Saturday Brailsford has a legit chance to start for the Browns as a rookie. Brailsford recently talked to reporters at the Browns’ rookie minicamp, and the former Alabama player said he sees the minicamp as a great challenge for him.

“It’s a big test for me,” Brailford said. “Coming in, you not really sure what to expect. and getting that much information at one time is a big test. I like to test myself.”

#Browns OL Parker Brailsford on rookie minicamp pic.twitter.com/nCQ6DG0UwT

— Fred Greetham (@FredGreetham9) May 9, 2026

Ethan Pocic and Luke Wypler started at center for Cleveland during the 2025 season. Wypler stepped into the role when Pocic went down with an injury.