Cleveland Browns NFL Draft prospects: Third round, pick No. 97

Another name that should be high on the Browns board is pass rusher Alex Highsmith from the University of Charlotte. Not many teams can say they have two defensive linemen from Charlotte, but the Browns could if they draft Highsmith and pair him with defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi.

Highsmith was not highly recruited, walked on to Charlotte and redshirted his freshman year. Since then, Highsmith has continued to increase productivity and became a third-team All-American his senior year. Highsmith recorded insane stat lines in 2019, including 21.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks for his team.

While Highsmith may not get the recognition like Chase Young because of playing at a smaller school, there is no doubt this man can play the game. Cleveland could be the perfect opportunity for Highsmith to only worry about pass-rushing situations. Given his speed, he may fit better in a 3-4 stand up rush position, but certainly could develop into an every-down NFL player in a 4-3 defense.

Highsmith lacks size and strength as an NFL defensive end, but he has qualities that cannot be taught, which include finesse pass-rushing moves and freakish quickness off the ball. If Highsmith can get in the weight room and keep his quickness, look for him to be a breakout player.

Highsmith could be a reach at No. 97, but the Browns could lose their opportunity at him if they wait until the fourth round (No. 115). I’m not sure the Browns will be willing to reach this early in the draft, but with tremendous talents like Garrett and Vernon for Highsmith to learn from, this pick makes a lot of sense for the Browns.