Cleveland Browns: 7-round mock draft pre-Combine
By Randy Gurzi
Round 5, Pick 17: Porter Gustin, EDGE, USC
Cleveland adds some depth to their defensive end position here as they take USC edge rusher Porter Gustin. As a senior, Gustin registered a career-high 7.5 sacks despite playing just six games. A fractured ankle ended his season prematurely, which was the second time the injury bug hit the talented pass rusher.
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Back in 2017, he managed just four games as he had a meniscus tear as well as lingering shoulder and foot problems. In Cleveland, he wouldn’t be expected to start which could be good considering his inability to stay healthy. It could benefit them as well as Gustin has proven to be a player who can generate pressure in a hurry.
Round 5, Pick 32: Donald Parham, TE, Stetson
There’s no reason for the Browns to go after a tight end early with David Njoku locking the position down. The second-year player ended up with 639 yards receiving and had four touchdowns. Behind him was Darren Fells, who proved to be a pleasant surprise, and Seth DeValve. Still, Cleveland could use some competition which is why they use a late-round pick on Donald Parham.
Playing at a small school in Stetson, Parham is a potential diamond in the rough. He recorded 1,319 yards and 13 touchdowns off 85 receptions. It will take time to adapt to the level of talent in the NFL, but this could be a great pick for down the road.