Cleveland Browns mock draft: John Metchie strengthens receiver corps

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver John Metchie III (8) turns up field after making a catch during the Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala., on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Auburn Tigers 24-22 in 4OT.
Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver John Metchie III (8) turns up field after making a catch during the Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala., on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Auburn Tigers 24-22 in 4OT. /
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Cleveland Browns
Iowa defensive back Dane Belton (4) reacts after a stop during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Minnesota, Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. /

Cleveland Browns Round 4 Pick: Dane Belton, S, Iowa

Entering the 2022 season, the Cleveland Browns have two very capable safeties in Grant Delpit and John Johnson III. They do, however, need to replace Ronnie Harrison, who spent a lot of time on the field as the third safety in Joe Woods’ defense.

While Richard LeCounte could make some strides in year two and find a role, the Browns could also look to the draft for his replacement. If so, Dane Belton from Iowa could make a lot of sense.

Belton isn’t as big as Harrison but he’s more than capable in run support and can play a hybrid linebacker role while also serving as a weapon on special teams.

Cleveland Browns Round 6 Pick: Matt Hankins, CB, Iowa

Again, we go to Iowa and land a player for the secondary as Cleveland uses their sixth-round pick — after sitting out Round 5 due to the Amari Cooper trade — on Matt Hankins. The Hawkeyes cornerback is listed at 6-foot-1 and 175-pounds and could end up being the steal of the draft if he falls this far.

While still thin, Hankins has the length that can cause issues for opposing wideouts and played for several years at Iowa — making him very experienced. He could provide some decent depth as a rookie but could develop into a role player before long.