Cleveland Browns mock draft: Re-tooling the defense

Nov 12, 2022; Troy, Alabama, USA; Troy Trojans quarterback Gunnar Watson (18) looks to evade Army Black Knights outside linebacker Andre Carter II (34) during the second half at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2022; Troy, Alabama, USA; Troy Trojans quarterback Gunnar Watson (18) looks to evade Army Black Knights outside linebacker Andre Carter II (34) during the second half at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Cleveland Browns playoff hopes are gone and they no begin to look toward the future with this 2023 seven-round mock draft.

With the Cleveland Browns to the New Orleans Saints on Christmas Eve, they’re officially out of the playoff race. There are plenty of holes to fill on this roster if they are to return to the postseason in 2023.

There will likely be a lot of changes in Berea including an overhaul on the defensive side if they want to be more successful next season. Let’s take a look at a full seven-round mock draft, disclaimer the Browns will have a third-round comp pick that isn’t currently available on mock draft simulators.

Cleveland Browns Second-Round Pick No. 41: Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army

Browns
Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

The idea of the team finding a difference-maker to play opposite Myles Garrett is one fans have been asking for now for quite a while. Andre Carter has a rare blend of physical tools and athleticism that can really improve the Browns’ pass rush. Checking in at 6-foot-7 and 265 pounds Carter has an explosive first step off the line making him difficult to block.

He has good hands and uses them well to shed blockers in the passing and running games that stick out on film. He dropped back in coverage a lot with Army and has the speed and athleticism to make plays in coverage. Learning from Garrett and benefiting from the attention he receives could make Carter an impact player from day one.