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Cleveland Browns: 2-round, way too early mock draft

By Damon Kecman

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws under pressure against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws under pressure against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Curtis Samuel (4) cuts inside offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) under pursuit from Michigan Wolverines linebacker Mike McCray (9) on the way to score the winning touchdown in double overtime at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 30-27 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Curtis Samuel (4) cuts inside offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) under pursuit from Michigan Wolverines linebacker Mike McCray (9) on the way to score the winning touchdown in double overtime at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 30-27 in double overtime. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 2, Pick 18 (No. 50 Overall): C Pat Elflein, Ohio State

The Browns should be ready to give up on Cameron Erving at center, or at least bring in someone who can challenge him. Pat Elflein, a 2016 All-American for Ohio State, has been the best center in college football this season.

After making the change from guard to center, Elflein has made great gains in winning the Rimington Trophy for the best center in college football. Elflein is highly rated at both the guard and center positions, and is one of the best run-blockers in college football.

Why Elflein?

The Browns need to select Elflein for the same reason they need to draft Ryan Ramczyk. The offensive line is horrendous and it is the most important part of the offense. With no offensive line for run blocking and pass protecting, you cannot succeed in the NFL.

Even if the Browns don’t end up using Elflein as a center, they can move him down and use him as a guard. Also, why haven’t the Browns been looking at Ohio State for talent with all the recent studs they have put in the NFL?

Next: Browns: 3 takeaways from season finale

Overall, this draft is about building a really good foundation and the best kind of foundation you can have is great protection. Garrett can play in any defensive scheme, Watson is the best quarterback in this draft, and the Browns beef up the offensive line with two of the best prospects in college football.

The Browns are building for the future and this is the best possible way to improve the roster while also setting up a good foundation years to come.

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