No. 1: Xavier McKinney S, Alabama
Xavier McKinney is shooting up draft boards and by the time the draft rolls around he, in no doubt, should be a top half of the first-round draft pick.
Earning a master’s degree in safety play from Nick Saban bolds well for his transition into the NFL as he is an instinctive safety capable of making huge plays at the line of scrimmage while also possessing the much-needed coverage skills required of a safety in today’s NFL.
Alabama safety Xavier McKinney is a baller. Active and all he does is make plays. pic.twitter.com/0Mz2XtlcOX
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) January 30, 2020
A major area need for the Cleveland Browns, McKinney could come in and a day one starter and never look back. Not too many safeties have the ability to play both strong and free. McKinney as an exception and he can be disguised accordingly by a defensive coordinator who knows how to use him.
With 95 tackles, three sacks, three interceptions, and four forced fumbles last season for the Crimson Tide, Xavier McKinney could do it all and would be an instant playmaker for Cleveland secondary to go along with Denzel Ward and Greedy Williams.
It’s clear to see that while it seems most eyes are fixed on an offensive tackle, there’s still plenty of talent all over the field for the Browns to add, should they decide to wait until Round 2 to address their hole on the left side of the line.