Cleveland Browns draft profile: Jalen Ramsey
The Cleveland Browns have the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft and may take a look at Florida State’s Jalen Ramsey as a possible selection.
The Cleveland Browns were atrocious on defense in the 2015 NFL season and ranked No. 30 overall in total defense. Saying the defense needs help is an understatement as the Browns, once prided on their defense (by a Browns standard), struggled in all aspects.
Finishing in the bottom-twenties in terms of defensive ranking among all NFL teams in both passing yards allowed and rushing yards as well, Cleveland ranked No. 25 in total defense in the NFL and finished among the bottom-three for points allowed per game.
Obviously the Browns were injury ridden throughout the 2015 NFL season, especially on defense. Their cornerstone defensive back Joe Haden was limited to only five games this past season due to numerous concussions. Former No. 8 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft Justin Gilbert remains a bust and not only is his talent questioned, but his passion and work ethic are doubted on top of his poor play in his first two seasons.
Tramon Williams was signed to help Haden hold down the cornerback position, something that Haden didn’t have the luxury of previously. The former Green Bay Packer disappointed tremendously in his first season in Cleveland after receiving a three-year deal last free agency worth $21 million, $10 million being guaranteed.
Posting only one interception and 10 pass deflections, both career lows since entering his rookie season in 2007, the Browns depended on a few young, inexperienced players in K’Waun Williams, Pierre Desir and Johnson Bademosi. All played decent and Williams proved he’s worthy of an improved role in 2016. Also, 2015 draft pick Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, who didn’t see the field his rookie season due to an injury from college, is expected to return this season and is an intriguing player as he was a top defensive back in college.
Despite the young talent the Browns have at the defensive back position, they’ve learned repeatedly that potential is far from talent. This years draft class is considered a deep one and is loaded with talent.
The conversation regarding the cornerback position starts with Florida State’s Jalen Ramsey, highly considered the most talented player overall in the draft.
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