Would the Cleveland Browns look past obvious needs for an unreal talent?
By Trey Zimmer
Should the Cleveland Browns consider taking a player who doesn’t fit their biggest needs in the 2020 Draft, but potentially flip the defense on its head?
After a disappointing 2019 season, the Cleveland Browns will have the 10th overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft. They have a clear need on the offensive line, but they should consider targeting a player who would be a potential force on the defensive line.
From a five-star defensive end recruit out of Edwardsville High School in Illinois to a potential first round pick out of Iowa, A.J. Epenesa has proven his abilities as a football player. The former Hawkeye tallied 26.5 sacks during his three seasons at Iowa.
However, more importantly, Epenesa had over 100 total career tackles. The massive defensive end proved not only that he can get after the quarterback, but he can also protect the edge and play a pivotal role in the run game.
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What does this mean for the Cleveland Browns? Well, the Browns need a run stuffing force on the defensive line. Sheldon Richardson did well this past season, as did Myles Garrett prior to his suspension. However, as a unit the Browns still finished the 2019 season ranked 30th in run defense. Epenesa could be the piece that helps flip the Browns rush defense next season.
Along with Epenesa’s ability to aid in the run game comes his ability to get after the quarterback. This may seem less important with the (hopeful) return of Garrett next season. However, the combination of Garrett, Richardson, Vernon, and Epenesa in the Browns pass rush could prove lethal.
Adding Epenesa could allow the Browns to become a much more flexible defense by giving themselves the ability to have two defensive ends who can play inside of the defensive line and still be successful.
Now, the question is would this be a worthwhile pick with consideration to the fact that the Browns offensive line was the most problematic area of the team last season? Simply, the answer is yes.
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In this draft the offensive line talent is abundant with a small margin of difference in the talent. With the surprising Senior Bowl performances of a few small school offensive linemen, the Browns could wait and select a tackle later in the draft and use their first draft pick on a player who could offer a lot more immediately.