Cleveland Browns pre-free agency 7-round 2021 NFL Mock Draft

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Nov 30, 2019; Syracuse, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange defensive back Ifeatu Melifonwu (23) intercepts a pass in the end zone in front of Wake Forest Demon Deacons wide receiver Waydale Jones (80) during the second quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Syracuse. IfeatuMelifonwu. 2.59. 827. Scouting Report. CB. player. Pick Analysis

Denzel Ward is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Greedy Williams was much better in 2019 than most remember, and is finally over the nerve issue in his shoulder. These things are true, and yet the Browns still need a lot of talent in the secondary. Ifeatu Melifonwu is one of the most talented defensive backs in the class, combining his 6-3, 213-pound frame with rare athleticism and fluidity.

He doesn’t yet truly know how to use his physical gifts, but if he can figure that part out, he can be an elite player. That isn’t to say he’s not good; he is quite good. It’s just a matter of how good he is right now vs. how good he can be. Melifonwu would not need to be counted on as an instant starter, but he could certainly compete for a large role as a rookie, and even if he doesn’t start, he’d certainly play plenty of snaps.

An NFL team can never have too many good cornerbacks. Williams’ long-term future is far from solidified, and Cleveland doesn’t have any other corners under contract. They’ll be taking one early, perhaps even in the first round, and Melifonwu will be under consideration there, if he’s even still on the board.

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