Browns focus on defense in 2023 NFL Mock Draft

The Cleveland Browns add a massive wide receiver with their first pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft but then go heavy on the defensive side of the ball

We’re entering Week 5 of the NFL season and the NCAA season is also in full effect. While watching the collegiate games this weekend, it seemed like a good time to throw out another Cleveland Browns seven-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

The Browns have vastly improved their roster in recent years but there’s still room to grow. Here, they do that by adding a massive wideout and then focusing heavily on defense.

Browns focus on defense in 2023 NFL Mock Draft

Round 2: Johnny Wilson, WR, Florida State

One thing stands out when it comes to Johnny Wilson and that’s his incredible size. Listed at 6-foot-7 and 235-pounds, he looks like a tight end but he’s got the speed of a wideout.

He’s also a major weapon in both the red zone as well as on contested passes according to Keith Sanchez of The Draft Network.

"“Johnny Wilson’s plus traits come from his pure size. Wilson appears to be every bit of 6-foot-7 with the wing span to match and Wilson uses this to his advantage. In the red zone, Wilson will use his frame to box out defenders and go up to catch the football at its highest point, which Wilson has shown to be dominant at. Wilson makes for a great reliable target for quarterbacks because if they throw the ball up to him, he can get to vertical levels that the defensive backs can’t get to—throws his way have a low chance for an interception” — Sanchez, The Draft Network"

A transfer from Arizona State, Wilson is off to a fast start in his first season in the ACC. He helped the Seminoles start off 3-0 for the first time since 2015 and they’re now 4-1.

He’s also not had great quarterback play but still averages 18.8 yards per catch. Wilson’s an intriguing weapon to put across from Amari Cooper who will ensure he has plenty of one-on-one matchups with much smaller cornerbacks.

Round 3: J.L. Skinner, S, Boise State

Ronnie Harrison is a free agent and while he did return on a one-year deal this offseason, it’s not likely that will happen again. Cleveland does still believe Grant Delpit and John Johnson III are their starters in 2023 even though there have been several miscues on the back end of the defense this year.

They still need more depth, especially if Harrison is gone. That’s why J.L. Skinner from Boise State is the choice with their second pick of this mock. A big safety at 6-foot-4 and 218-pounds, Skinner has four career picks and 9.5 tackles for a loss. He could slide into the role Harrison plays and perform at a high level.

Round 4: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin

There’s no denying Cleveland needs a big body in the middle of the line. They continue to try and use defensive tackles known for their pass-rushing talent and that led to them being absolutely gashed by a late-round pick and former undrafted free agent against Atlanta on the ground.

It’s time they add someone who can punish the running back and that’s what Keeanu Benton does. Listed at 6-foot-4 and 317-pounds, Benton has been a nose tackle for Wisconsin and while he won’t light up a box score, he’s going to clog up running lanes and keep the interior linemen from pushing the line of scrimmage forward.

Round 4: Ryan Hayes, OT, Michigan

Jack Conklin is interested in staying with Cleveland long-term but chances aren’t high that they’ll be willing to pay him what he deserves. Conklin has been great but James Hudson performed well when the veteran was out to start this season — and will be a much more affordable option.

If that does happen, the Browns will need another swing tackle and they go back to Round 4 to find that — which is the same round they landed Hudson in during the 2021 NFL Draft. Here, they go to Michigan and add Ryan Hayes who has long arms and great athleticism. He needs to be developed some but that’s exactly what Bill Callahan does.

Round 5: Ivan Pace Jr., LB, Cincinnati

General manager Andrew Berry doesn’t put a premium on the linebacker position which makes it seem likely that both Sione Takitaki and Anthony Walker could be gone in 2023 since they’re hitting free agency. If either does walk, don’t expect Cleveland to take a replacement before day three.

In this NFL mock draft, they land Ivan Pace, Jr. from Cincinnati. Pace started his career with Miami (OH) and had 125 tackles, four sacks, and an interception last season. Now with Cincinnati, he’s racked up 55 tackles and five sacks in five games. His versatility and nose for the ball make him a great fit for the Browns.

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.