Cleveland Browns stockpile defense in 7-round 2021 mock draft

It really seemed as though former Cleveland Browns general manager John Dorsey made some great trades ahead of the 2019 season. Sure, he gave up some quality starters in guard Kevin Zeitler and safety Jabrill Peppers, but they ended up landing Odell Beckham, Jr. and Olivier Vernon. And while OBJ was the one to garner the most attention, the thought of adding a Pro Bowl defensive end opposite Myles Garrett was also incredibly enticing.

Fast forward to now and the Vernon trade looks less impressive. He’s continued to struggle with his health, missing six games in 2019, and already sitting out two this season. There’s no denying that Vernon is a talented player but his durability concerns are reason enough to move on from him in 2021.

The good news is, the Browns have some talent. Adrian Clayborn will still be under contract next season and while he’s missed time this season, that hasn’t been the norm for him. There’s also Porter Gustin, who beat out Chad Thomas ahead of the 2020 campaign. While those two can play the position, Cleveland needs some depth. That’s where Ronnie Perkins will come in.

Perkins is taken here with the first of two third-round picks for the Browns and offers a solid rotational end with a great mix of power and speed. Perkins could end up developing into a starter down the road but at least gives Cleveland options out of the gate.