Cleveland Browns: 2019 NFL Mock Draft post Freddie Kitchens hire

Round 1: Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson

With the Browns selecting an offensive-minded coach, it would seem more likely that they would go with a player on that side of the ball here. However, Freddie Kitchens showed an ability to work with the players he has in place and put up plenty of offense. Now with a full offseason to work with his core of players, there should be even more progress made in 2019.

On top of that, this draft looks like one where the Browns can land a premium player another position of need — defensive tackle. This draft class is loaded as players like Quinnen Williams, Ed Oliver, and Rashan Gary could go very early. And because of that, someone like Christian Wilkins could still be there when Cleveland picks at No. 17.

Wilkins could have gone this early — or maybe higher — had he entered the 2018 NFL Draft. He decided to go back to school for his final season of eligibility in search of a national title. He and the rest of his team accomplished that goal as the Tigers defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide in the College National Championship game.

Now the Browns will be happy to add him to their talented defensive line and place him next to Larry Ogunjobi. The two together both can rush the passer while also playing well against the run. He recorded 111 tackles and 10.5 sacks the past two seasons for the Tigers and would make the Browns line dangerous.