Cleveland Browns 7-round mock continues defensive rebuild

A name that some believe the Cleveland Browns could consider in round one is Carlos Basham Jr., a defensive end from Wake Forest. And while I don’t like it at all at No. 26, I absolutely love this pick if he would happen to fall to pick no. 59 in Round 2.

The edge-rushing class is full of mediocre talent, and there is no clear leader in the pack.  After having 10 sacks in 2019, many expected him to be the top prospect after returning for his senior season. His numbers were solid, but Basham saw his sacks cut in half to only five in 2020, and once again he is mixed in with all the other second-round type talents.

Basham has an extremely high football IQ which can’t be overlooked, and he also has the size and length that is desired at the NFL level. Where Basham really lacks is athleticism. In college when he could just overpower tackles, he had no issues getting to the quarterback. There are real concerns that he could struggle vs. NFL-caliber tackles who will be equally as strong as him.

Basham can stand up but is likely better suited in a 4-down scheme at the next level. With the addition of Takk McKinley, the Browns aren’t desperate for a defensive end, but a guy like Basham could really benefit from a situation like the Browns have. While not being forced on the field as a rookie, he would likely get some snaps which could help quicker development.