Cleveland Browns 2017 NFL Draft Profile: Budda Baker
By Kirk Binder
It’s no secret that the Cleveland Browns need to upgrade their secondary, especially the safety spots. Budda Baker is a safety who has the versatility that would fill a crucial need in this NFL Draft.
The Cleveland Browns need help all over the defense. Of all the needs on defense, the safety positions could use the most help. Not only does the position lack a true starter, it also lacks depth. Budda Baker is a playmaker that can come in and provide an immediate spark.
The Browns ended last season with converted corner Tramon Williams and Ed Reynolds starting at safety for the season finale against the Steelers. Williams is no longer with the team and Reynolds is a solid backup at best.
Cleveland drafted Derrick Kindred in the fourth round of last season’s draft, however, he succumbed to injury. While he showed promise he is still an unknown quantity. The coaching staff is high on him and he will get an opportunity this season. The hope is that he will be a quality player.
Tyvis Powell was signed in the offseason and while he was an undrafted free agent he does have some upside. At 6-foot-3 and 211 pounds, he has the size for the strong safety position. With the right coaching, he could be a decent player. He did not see much game time with Seattle, therefore he is another unknown going into this season.
Ibraheim Campbell has had opportunities to show he is a starter the past two seasons. While he has played decently at times the consistency is just not there. He needs to show he can be an every-down player. At best right now he is a rotational player.
The Browns attempted to sign two safeties in the offseason, Tony Jefferson and Bradley McDougald. Both signed elsewhere leaving Cleveland thin at the position. With only four safeties on the defense with NFL experience, they need to add players to in those spots. Gregg Williams’ defense relies heavily on safeties that are versatile, which is why Budda Baker would be a great addition.