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Cleveland Browns: 2018 NFL Mock Draft post-combine

By Randy Gurzi

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 03: USC quarterback Sam Darnold talks with Ken Zampese of the Cleveland Browns during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 03: USC quarterback Sam Darnold talks with Ken Zampese of the Cleveland Browns during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 3, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MARCH 05: Alabama defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (DB51) runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 5, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MARCH 05: Alabama defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (DB51) runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 5, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Round 1 Pick 4: Minkah Fitzpatrick, FS, Alabama

Ideally the No. 4 pick would be Saquon Barkley, the Penn State running back. He blew up the Combine and in each of the past two seasons, the best running back has been there at No. 4. However, Barkley was way too impressive and is likely gone here.

The Browns then decide to go for plan B, which is the best free safety in the draft, Minkah Fitzpatrick. The versatile defensive back is praised as a team leader and can do anything asked of him according to Lance Zierlein of NFL.com.

"“Fitzpatrick turns up the intensity level as high as it will go and rips off the knob until the game is over. Fitzpatrick has experience as a slot cornerback, but will likely be targeted as a “do-everything” safety who can be deployed as a sub-package linebacker, a blitzer or in the slot against big receivers and move tight ends. Fitzpatrick has consistently shined since his freshman season on Alabama defenses that have been loaded with NFL talent. His versatility, football character and desire to succeed give him Pro Bowl potential and should make him an early starter.” — Zierlein"

The Browns could do much worse than landing the Alabama product here and with their first two picks they get high character guys who are going to change the culture in Cleveland.

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