Cleveland Browns: 7-Round Dawg Pound Daily collaborative mock draft — Vol. 1
By Randy Gurzi
Writer: Matt McFatridge
Round 1- Sam Darnold, QB, USC
Cleveland’s biggest need is at the quarterback position, but the team is probably too gun shy to go after another six foot quarterback. Darnold has the size and intangibles you look for in an NFL starter. He also has more mobility than most of the other top options at this position.
Round 1- Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama
Easily the top defensive back, if not overall defensive player, in this class. Cleveland needs blue chip talent all across the roster. This guy could come in and pay immediate dividends for the defense.
Round 2- Jaire Alexander, CB, Louisville
A tough, athletic cornerback who can run with anyone in the league. A nagging knee injury may keep some teams away, but there’s too much talent here to pass up on.
Round 2- Sony Michel, RB, UGA
One of the more complete backs to come into the draft the last few years. He’s an older back, but it’s time for Cleveland to find a replacement for Crowell.
Round 2- Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M
Not the biggest or strongest wide receiver, but still a playmaker. He can play all over the field, including returning kicks and punts.
Round 3- Tyrell Crosby, OT, Oregon
A big, long right tackle prospect. Great in run blocking, but needs some work on improving his footwork to prove he can be a good NFL pass blocker.
Round 4- Jaylen Samuels, TE/RB/WR, NC State
Athletic hybrid player who doesn’t do anything exceptionally well, but can play anywhere. Another blue chip talent to play in just about any situation.
Round 4- Josey Jewell, LB, Iowa
A solid performer coming from a school that does nothing but produce quality defensive NFL prospects.
Round 5- Hercules Mata’afa, EDGE, Washington State
He played all over the defensive line for the Cougars, and his strength makes him a safe bet to be a solid Defensive end in the NFL.
Round 5- Darius Leonard, OLB, South Carolina State
Long, twitchy linebacker from a small school. Not much room to bulk up his frame, but talented enough to get a shot.
Round 6- Jake Weineke, WR, South Dakota St
Tall receiver who can contribute from day one.
Next: Counting on McCarron to solve QB problem is folly
Round 7- KC McDermott, G/C, Miami
Lengthy interior lineman who can add depth to the offensive line. Needs to work on his footwork speed to control blocks.