Browns mock draft: Defensive tackle answer found in Round 2

Round 3: Trey Dean III, S, Florida

One of the primary issues in the Cleveland secondary this year has been the decline in the performance of their safeties. Both John Johnson III and Grant Delpit have struggled, especially in coverage. Johnson’s popularity with the fan base also took a hit when he called for more effort from teammates then was seen practically avoiding contact in their very next game.

With all that being said, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Browns look for more youth at the position which is why they select Trey Dean III from Florida with their Round 3 selection. Dean can play either safety position and also has experience at corner. But what really stands out is the way he can play in coverage while also delivering as a tackler — as noted by Keith Sanchez of The Draft Network.

"“Dean appears to be a good athlete from the way he can play sideline to sideline. Against the run, Dean does a good job of flowing downhill to the line of scrimmage to meet the ball carrier. Dean is a contact seeker that likes to deliver the big blow. In pass coverage, Dean’s experience shows in his ability to play the ball in the air. On deep throws, Dean has the speed to run with receivers down the field and locate the football.” — Sanchez, The Draft Network"

Throw in the fact that he stands 6-foot-3 and 207-pounds and it sounds as though Dean is exactly what they need in the back end of the secondary.

Round 4: Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Virginia

Entering the year, Dontayvion Wicks was expected to put up some huge numbers after recording 1,203 yards and nine touchdowns on 57 receptions during 2021. However, he’s had just 29 catches for 416 yards and two touchdowns this season for Virginia.

Even with the dip in numbers, he’s a deep threat that averages 18.9 yards per catch. He also has good size for a wideout at 6-foot-1 and 210-pounds. That makes him worth a flier with their first of two picks in Round 4.