Surprising names fall to Cleveland Browns in new 7-Round mock draft
By Clay Goodwin
With 2 months left until the 2020 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns address their glaring needs in this updated, complete 7-round mock draft.
The Cleveland Browns head into this year’s draft with specific, obvious needs. They have a clear issue on the offensive line that includes both tackles and right guard. All three positions were a major concern for the entirety of the 2019 season and were certainly part of the reason the offense struggled so mightily.
Cleveland’s front office will surely look to fill the voids via free agency and the draft. The draft is often friendlier to organizations because you do not have to pay a veteran a lofty contract. Especially with a team like the Browns loaded with skill talent, they need to save money to pay those players when their contracts expire.
Another area of concern, outside of the O-line, is at safety. With Damarious Randall not signed back yet, and Morgan Burnett aging and coming off a brutal Achilles injury, the safety position is wide open. Look for an early to mid-round selection to help fill that void.
Another need that that is apparent but less severe would include linebacker. The linebacker room is a bit of a mystery for several reasons. First, the team’s defensive captain and tackle leader Joe Schobert has not been extended yet so his future with the team is unknown.
His departure would surely leave a hole to be filled. Secondly, the Browns have two young linebackers who are definitely promising but unproven. Mack Wilson had a great rookie year, but needs to show improvement, and Sione Takitaki did not see the field much until late in the season.
Lastly, Cleveland could use some defensive line depth. The unit is very top-heavy. The talent among the starting front four is far greater than the reserves, and productivity dips when the starters need a breather. Look for some depth added in April’s draft.
Of course, there are scenarios when players fall and the team will go with the best player available for the value of the pick, but in this mock, the picks will align with the needs of the team as a few surprise names fall to the Cleveland Browns.