Cleveland Browns stockpile defense in 7-round 2021 mock draft

Linebacker has been a massive need for Cleveland and using an early pick on Nick Bolton surely helps, but they can’t stop there. For that reason, they use their first of two fourth-round picks on ASU’s Merlin Robinson. Listed at 6-foot-3 and 251-pounds, Robinson would be able to play as the SAM linebacker with the ability to rush off the edge when needed.

While he does well in that role, he’s still smooth enough in his movement to help out in coverage when needed. In his first two seasons with the Sun Devils, he has 151 tackles with seven sacks, and two picks. He would be a great fit in the Browns defense and could contribute right away as a rookie — with the upside to start down the road.

Chris Hubbard played well when called upon and is still under contract in 2021. However, they could see Kendall Lamm head elsewhere as his deal is up following this season. Chances are, Hubbard will stick around since he’s responded well to the move to swing tackle — and the coaching of Bill Callahan — but Lamm will likely be replaced.

For that reason, they target Tyler Vrabel from Boston College with their second pick in the fourth. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound Vrabel is the son of Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel and could develop into a solid pro, but would be best served learning as a swing tackle for a year or two.