Brian Burns to Cleveland Browns in 2019 NFL Mock Draft

Cory Kinnan of NFL Spin Zone releases his latest mock draft and has the Cleveland Browns selecting Florida State pass rusher Brian Burns at No. 17

The Cleveland Browns don’t own two top-5 picks this season, but that hasn’t stopped the endless speculation about what they’re going to do in the 2019 NFL Draft. The general consensus seems to be that they will go with either a defensive tackle, wide receiver or offensive tackle.

However, not everyone sees it this way as one writer is pinpointing a different position for the Browns to target this spring. In his latest first-round mock draft on NFL Spin Zone, Cory Kinnan has the Cleveland Browns selecting Brian Burns, the edge rusher out of Florida State.

While saying Burns could be a steal at this spot, Kinnan also addresses concerns over the slender frame of the FSU edge rusher and compares him to a former Cleveland draft bust.

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"“Although Burns should give the Browns a bit of a Barkevious Mingo scare due to his slender build, he has the work ethic and frame to add muscle and weight to his frame. As he heads to Indianapolis for the Combine, be sure to keep an eye on his measurements and how he performs at the bench press.” — Kinnan, NFL Spin Zone"

The Barkevious Mingo comparison is scary but could be accurate. That also may not be a bad thing. Mingo was an incredibly talented player who had his development stunted by coaching. Now with a new staff in town — and a trusted defensive coordinator in Steve Wilks — a player with the kind of upside as Burns can be drafted without fear of the team doing anything to hurt his growth.

Having said that, Burns isn’t seen by all as a first-round pick. He had an up and down career with the Seminoles that saw his sack numbers go from 8.5 in eight games as a freshman to 4.5 in 13 as a sophomore. He then hit 10 as a junior which proves he is developing. Burns is also a technically sound player, but there’s no doubt he needs to add some muscle to his slight frame.

One thing Kinnan does point out that is true is that Burns will likely test like a freak at the Combine due to his athleticism and speed. That could make him dangerous lining up opposite Myles Garrett.