Cleveland Browns: Minnesota WR Rashod Bateman a welcome 2021 NFL Draft target
By Cory Kinnan
The Cleveland Browns would need to use their first to get Bateman
There is no doubt that Bateman is a first-round talent as the 2021 NFL Draft approaches for him. Not only that, but there are many reasons the Browns are interested in him; he will be an analytics darling given his breakout age and market share production, and while he will more than likely not wow anyone at the NFL Scouting Combine, his talent is undeniable.
That is the caveat for the Browns: they will need to use their first-round draft pick on Bateman in April if they want to land his services. However, do not count this out for the Browns for a number of reasons. First of all, the Browns cannot fill all of their needs in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, and they have six other rounds, including two third and fourth-round picks in April.
When looking at needs they can fill in free agency, wide receiver is likely not one of them given the market on receivers and the price attached. Defensive tackles, linebackers, and pass rush depth is easier to land in free agency, as they usually come at a more cost-effective price. Other needs, such as cornerbacks and wide receivers carry a much heftier price to pay; these are positions the Browns will likely look to get on rookie contracts.
With the uncertain future of Odell Beckham Jr., the Browns need a true number one wide receiver, a role that Jarvis Landry cannot cover given his limited skill set and athletic ability. While we can hope for the continued development of Donovan Peoples-Jones, that is not a safe bet to make at this point.
Next. 3 Cleveland Browns who need more snaps in Week 10 and beyond. dark
Should the Browns look for a new WR1 in the draft, Bateman should remain near the top of their boards.