Browns mock draft: Malik Willis surprise pick at No. 13
Browns mock draft Round 2 pick: Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati
With the Browns unsure about the future of defensive end Jadaveon Clowney with the organization, they need to look to add a playmaker to the defensive line to replace him opposite star rusher Myles Garrett. With their second-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, they do just that by selecting Myjai Sanders out of Cincinnati.
Sanders has an explosive first step and has shown a consistent ability to anticipate the snap, wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks. He’s an excellent pass rusher but still needs to develop his skills in run defense, as he often gets eaten up by attacking offensive linemen.
For the Cleveland Browns to be successful in 2022 and beyond, they need to get back to finding success on the defensive line both in run-stopping and pass-rushing situations. If Myjai Sanders can keep his weight at the listed 255 pounds from his college days, he’ll be a nice addition to a defensive line that needs playmakers and needs them badly.
Browns mock draft Round 3 pick: Jalen Tolbert, WR, South Alabama
Many would critique the Browns for failing to take a wide receiver prior to the third round, but after opting to take a quarterback in the first round, the mid-round depth of wide receivers allowed them to wait. Even after waiting, their selection of South Alabama’s Jalen Tolbert in this mock draft may be the steal of the entire draft if it ends up happening.
Tolbert may have some of the best hands in the 2022 wide receiver draft class, and while he does have few drops on his record in college, the majority of passes that were thrown his way were caught. He’s also not just a one-trick pony, as he’s able to get separation on both deep and short routes.
If the Browns are able to get a quality free agent receiver along with Tolbert this late in the draft, they’ll already have improved their roster significantly on offense. Giving a rookie quarterback that, along with the best running back tandem in the entire NFL, is an easy way to provide confidence and build for a successful future.