Browns draft: 6 players to watch at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine

2. Mike Morris, EDGE, Michigan

Since taking the job as general manager in Cleveland, Andrew Berry has shown he likes ascending players. He also looks for youth in the draft since it means the player is still growing rather than already peaking.

That describes Michigan defensive end Mike Morris perfectly.

Listed at 6-foot-6 and 278 pounds, Morris has the ideal size to play on the edge across from Myles Garrett. He's also just 21 years of age and will turn 22 right around draft time. But what's most intriguing is the growth he displayed from 2021 to 2022.

Morris went from a rotational player to a star for Michigan and recorded 23 tackles, 11 for a loss, and 7.5 sacks during his final season. He also did this while moving from the defensive line to linebacker, displaying the athleticism to make plays from a stand-up position.

Cleveland has one of the best defensive ends in the entire NFL right now in Garrett but with Jadeveon Clowney on the way out — and Chase Winovich also a free agent — they need to add another potential starter. Their top option right now is Alex Wright and while he has the talent, he's still very raw.

Adding someone in free agency is also an option but the Browns don't have the resources to devote $10 million-plus to a long-time starter. Instead, they could look for a bridge player who can work alongside Wright and another youngster. Should they go this route, Morris would be an ideal fit.