2023 NFL Mock Draft: Browns make surprise move for left tackle

Round 3, Pick No. 98: Brodric Martin, DL, Western Kentucky

There’s no bigger need on the entire Cleveland Browns roster than at defensive tackle and in this mock draft, they take Brodric Martin out of Western Kentucky to fill this hole. He’s an imposing 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds and has the ability to get after the running back as well as generate pressure in the passing game. He’s still a work in progress but Jim Schwartz could be the right coach to get him to reach his potential.

Martin played his last two seasons with Western Kentucky after spending two years with North Alabama. He recorded 31 tackles in each of the last two campaigns while also recording four sacks and a forced fumble.

This selection isn’t made with the intention of Martin starting in Week 1, but he has the talent to be a very good player in the long run. Cleveland may target a few defensive linemen as free agency opens in March so the idea of drafting a player at this position and inserting them into the starting unit is highly unlikely.

Cleveland has brought in players such as Jordan Elliott and Tommy Togiai in recent drafts and Elliott improved this past season but they still need more players to develop, which is why Martin is the choice here.