3 Biggest needs remaining for the Cleveland Browns after 2021 NFL Draft
By Randy Gurzi
1. EDGE
The final position where the Cleveland Browns can use some depth is on the EDGE of the defensive line. Now, much like cornerback, this one isn’t nearly as much about talent as it is durability.
Cleveland has Myles Garrett on one side who is an absolute stud and a former No. 1 pick. He’s been a player in the conversation for NFL Defensive Player of the Year and with some of the additions around him — meaning fewer double-teams — he should be right back in that discussion 2021.
Across from him is another former No. 1 overall pick, Jadeveon Clowney. Signed to a one-year deal, Clowney has never had his talent questioned but he seems to always get dinged up. That includes last season when he missed eight games and the playoffs for the Tennessee Titans — the team that signed him despite the Browns efforts a season ago.
Their primary reserve is Takk McKinley, who was a first-round pick as well — although later in the first round than the other two. He has also missed time and bounced around several teams in 2020 apparently due to failed physicals.
If all three stay healthy, the Browns would have the best defensive end corps in the NFL. However the talent level could drop off with Porter Gustin, Curtis Weaver, and Joe Jackson being next in line should anyone go down with an injury.
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It’s not imperative they starters since they’re set there, but it was surprising to see the position ignored in the draft. It wouldn’t be unfathomable to see Cleveland sign a veteran or bring in a player waived by another team as further depth just in case of more injuries.