Cleveland Browns land Zaven Collins in 2021 7-round mock draft
By Greg Newland
Asante Samuel Jr., Cornerback, Florida State
Round 2, Pick 59
The Cleveland Brown struggled immensely in man coverage in 2020. Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. could certainly fix that issue quickly in the 2021 season if the Browns were able to snag him in the second round. Samuel Jr. has a strong pedigree with his father being a four-time Pro Bowler, but his tape also proves he’s not just riding the shirttails of his father.
Samuel was one of the few who stayed at a struggling Florida State program when many jumped ship after the departure of Jimbo Fisher. In an elite program, Samuel may have found himself with a first-round projection, which could still happen.
Samuel is slightly undersized at 5-10, 184-pounds, but he more than makes up for that with strong instincts on routes. He thrives in man-to-man coverage but is also a strong tackler in running situations which is a huge benefit.
Samuel still struggles in zone coverage but could certainly adapt over time with experience and coaching. While he would likely not be a day one starter in Cleveland, Samuel would be a huge addition in man to man situations at the slot position. If the Browns landed Samuel, there is a greater chance the Kevin Johnson would not be brought back to the roster.