Browns focus on defense in 2023 NFL Mock Draft

Round 5: Jakorian Bennett, CB, Maryland

Sticking with the defensive side of the ball, Jakorian Bennett ends up getting the call with the Browns second pick in Round 5. Considering how often Greedy Williams is absent, Cleveland should be fine letting him test the open market. They should try and retain A.J. Green but even if they do, they’ll need more depth.

Bennett is listed at 5-11 and 200-pounds and has three career picks. He’s a willing tackler and could develop into another decent reserve in the secondary.

Round 6: Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington

There are a few young defensive ends on the roster now with Alex Wright and Isaiah Thomas. They both have shown flashes but banking on them making a huge leap without adding insurance isn’t advised. For that reason, Bralen Trice from Washington is the choice in Round 6.

Trice is listed at 6-foot-4 and 260-pounds and while he plays in a two-point stance for the Huskies, he has the strength and size to move to defensive end and play with his hand in the dirt.

Round 7: Austin Stogner, TE, South Carolina

David Njoku and Harrison Bryant aren’t going anywhere and offer up a solid one-two punch at tight end. Cleveland added Jesse James, giving them a solid No. 3 as well, but he was lost to injury.

Now, they add Austin Stogner to fill that role in 2023 and beyond. Stogner put up some solid numbers in 2020 when he had 26 receptions for 422 yards and three touchdowns for Oklahoma. He then struggled in 2021 before following Spencer Rattler to South Carolina.

His numbers took another dip this season but that entire offense is a mess and he could end up being a surprise gem taken in the final round.