Cleveland Browns: 3 safety options at pick No. 49 in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Randy Gurzi
The final player we look at is Taylor Rapp, from the Washington Huskies. In recent seasons, the Huskies have sent several defensive backs into the NFL and it can be argued that Rapp is the most talented in recent memory.
An All-American in 2018, Rapp is a violent hitter who could be seen flying all over the field. He’s an excellent open field tackler and is arguably the safest pick at the position in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The Numbers
Height: 6-foot-0
Weight: 208-Pounds
Career Tackles: 168
Career Interceptions: 7
40-Yard Dash: 4.74 at Pro Day — time may be skewed by a groin injury
Bench Press: 17 Reps
What the Scouts Say
There’s not much to dislike in Rapp’s game. He’s a smart player who doesn’t miss games — or many tackles for that matter. He has the perfect mix of coverage ability and run support which is why scouts are so high on him.
"“Ace tackler. His impact in run support can’t be overstated. He’s got quick closing burst thanks to effort and good angles to stay over the top of runs before breaking down but drops the hammer on folks when he’s the first arriving defender.” — Kyle Crabbs, The Draft Network"
Is he a fit in Cleveland?
Rapp is a perfect fit for the Browns. He would be a more refined cover safety than Jarbill Peppers — who was vastly improved in 2018 in this area. He also would be nearly as effective in coming up and supporting the run.
Rapp’s 4.74 40-yard dash is misleading as he was still dealing with a nagging groin injury. For Cleveland, this could help them out as it may give some teams pause which would let the Washington safety stay on the board just a little longer than expected.
Next. Browns 5 most likely 2019 primetime games. dark
In the end, Rapp may not be an option as someone could draft him before Cleveland is on the clock. However, if he is still there when it’s their turn, they need to run to the podium with his name on the card.