4 early contenders for Cleveland Browns second round pick in 2023
By John Suchan
No. 3 Cleveland Browns draft prospect contender: Rashee Rice, WR SMU
SMU wideout Rashee Rice has the size, speed, and agility, to go along with good hands which makes him an attractive option for the Browns. Cleveland drafted David Bell a year ago out of Purdue, and he had a decent start to his career — of course, he’ll need to do more in year two.
The scouting reports on Rice suggest he won’t blow by his defender initially, but instead has an excellent ability to get away from his defender and create separation by making quick moves with good cuts and angles, especially in the middle of the field. Giving Deshaun Watson another weapon in the offense, like Rice who has great height at 6-2, could be an intriguing prospect to consider.
Rice played all four seasons with the Mustangs, and again like some of these college prospects, his age could be a factor in the Browns’ decision to draft him or not. Last year, he caught 96 passes for 1,355 yards that included scoring 10 touchdowns. For his career, he finished with 3,111 yards and 25 touchdowns. His yards per catch for his career finished at 13.4.
When you continue to read the scouting reports on Rice the other point of emphasis is how he is excellent at catching the short ball and extending plays with yards after the catch. Obviously, players take a big step from college to the NFL and that could be seen this past year with David Bell and his adjustment in the league with the Browns. However, Rice’s upside seems to be very high as he continues to rise up most rankings and wide receiver draft boards.