Cleveland Browns: 3 players worth trading up for in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Randy Gurzi
Throughout the first eight contests in 2018, the Browns offensive line was pretty dreadful. Tyrod started three games for Cleveland and sacked 13 times in that span. Baker Mayfield took over for him in the middle of the third game and between Week 3 through Week 8 he was sacked 20 times. That pace changed once head coach Hue Jackson and offensive coordinator Todd Haley were let go.
One significant change was the play calling. With Freddie Kitchens running the offense, the ball came out quicker which limited the time Mayfield was susceptible to hits. Another change was the move from undrafted rookie Desmond Harrison to Greg Robinson. The combination of these moves led to just five sacks in the final five games of the season.
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Due to his play, Robinson is scheduled to be back in 2019 but he’s on just a one-year deal. The former No. 2 overall pick is on a ‘prove-it’ contract due to his history of not playing up to his potential. There are also concerns about right tackle Chris Hubbard who didn’t completely live up to his contract last year. He was also brought in due to his familiarity with Todd Haley’s offense — and Haley is no longer with the team.
With that being the case, offensive tackle has been high on the needs list for Cleveland. They could look to add one in with one of their current picks, but what if Jonah Williams from Alabama begins to fall? Arguably the top left tackle prospect, Williams may be slipping due to a poor outing in the NCAA Championship game.
Even with Clemson doing well against him, Williams put enough good film on tape to prove he’s a franchise left tackle and the Browns should be interested if he does begin to slide. Williams could be a star for them as a blindside protector. As for Robinson, he could battle with Hubbard at the right spot for the starting gig. There’s nothing wrong with competition, right?