Cleveland Browns: Collaborative 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0
By Randy Gurzi
Writer: Randy Gurzi
Round 1 Pick 1: Sam Darnold, QB
All signs currently point to the Browns taking someone other than Sam Darnold. That could only mean one thing — they’re taking Sam Darnold.
As much as most love this pick, I absolutely cringe. During his days at USC, Darnold regressed and had way too many turnovers. This feels like another overhyped USC quarterback.
Who they should pick: Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
Mayfield is head and shoulders above all the players in the quarterback class of 2018. Why that’s a question makes no sense, but the Browns will probably pass on him then be upset about it later.
Round 1 Pick 4: Bradley Chubb, DE, North Carolina State
Adding Chubb gives them a monstrous pass rush as they add the best edge rusher for a second season in a row.
Who they should pick: Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State
As good as Chubb is, Emmanuel Ogbbah is a perfectly capable starter opposite Myles Garrett. Maybe instead they should get the blazing fast Denzel Ward out of Ohio State.
Round 2 Pick 33: Chukwuma Okorafor, OT, Western Michigan
Shon Coleman could slide over to left tackle, but Okorafor should be there as a security blanket. He can play either side or even offer up a strong swing tackle.
Who they should pick: Okorafor
For the reasons listed above, this pick makes a ton of sense. They don’t want either tackle spot to be an issue, so too many players is better than not enough.
Round 2 Pick 35: Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado
They went with Chubb in the second, so they decide to get the corner here. Isaiah Oliver would be a great fit and could become a starter.
Who they should pick: Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia
What they should do is get another playmaker on offense — especially considering I went with Ward in this version of the mock.
Round 2 Pick 64: Harrison Phillips, DT, Stanford
The Browns need some bulk in their defensive line and after adding Chubb in the first, they now add Harrison Phillips out of Stanford.
Who they should pick: Josh Sweat, DE, Florida State
While we didn’t go for Bradley Chubb, we do grab an edge rusher. Josh Sweat is underrated and could develop into a strong player in the Browns rotation. He also wouldn’t cost an incredibly high pick, so him being a reserve doesn’t hurt. It also won’t make them feel like forcing out Ogbah too early.