Browns mock draft: Defensive tackle answer found in Round 2

Round 4: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan

For the second time in this mock, we grab a defensive tackle, and while Calijah Kancey came in as an undersized option, Mazi Smith is the exact opposite. The Michigan Wolverine is listed at 6-foot-3 and 326-pounds, which is exactly what Cleveland needs in the middle of their defensive line.

They’ve been pushed around far too many times in the run game and Smith has the power to keep that from being an every-game occurrence. Many Cleveland fans aren’t thrilled to see Michigan players drafted by the Browns, but Smith is a player who will become a beloved member of the team in no time due to his impressive style of play.

Round 5: Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, OT, Oregon

At 6-foot-7 and 345-pounds, it’s impossible to miss Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu. The Oregon offensive tackle is a mountain of a man and while there will be calls to move him inside — which is everyone’s favorite thing to say about a tackle — keeping him on the outside would be the plan for Cleveland.

Offensive line coach Bill Callahan has worked wonders with young players, see the leap James Hudson made from year one to now, and would surely love the chance to mold this young man into a future starter. With Jack Conklin likely gone in free agency, Hudson will move to a starting role and Aumavae-Laulu can serve as a powerful swing tackle.

Round 5: Brenton Cox Jr., EDGE, Florida

Jadeveon Clowney is going to be a free agent and after another season where he’s been missing time due to injury, the Browns should be ready to move on. Alex Wright has been playing in his place and is showing a lot of progress which means he should have a chance to start.

Still, Cleveland will need more depth which is why Brenton Cox, Jr. is selected here. After spending one season at Georgia, Cox transferred to Florida and has 13.5 sacks in three seasons. He’s not a polished starter at the next level, but he checks off a lot of boxes and can be a solid rotational piece.