The Cleveland Browns haven’t had much to do in the first few days of the NFL Draft the past couple of years. They traded a massive number of first-round picks for quarterback Deshaun Watson. The team showed they had the talent and depth to compete. Making the playoffs with Joe Flacco under center was truly amazing. What do they need to address in the draft?
Cleveland Browns Draft Needs
The Cleveland Browns only have five picks in the NFL Draft currently. They don’t pick until the second round at pick number 54. Only two of their picks are in the first four rounds. It limits what they can do, but we’ve seen late-round picks become contributors on good teams. What positions do they need to draft the most?
Defensive Line
Whether it is on the edge or the interior, the Cleveland Browns need some depth on the defensive line. Myles Garrett is great but needs some complementary pass rushers. Za’Darius Smith played well last season but is in the twilight of his career. Some fresh young talent on the defensive line is exactly what Jim Schwartz needs. The defense was the strength of last season, and they should continue to invest.
Running Back
The Cleveland Browns have enjoyed the combination of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt for the past few years. They need to find their next great running back. Chubb is 28 and coming off another serious leg injury. Hunt is also in the twilight of his career and might not make the team this year. The offensive line is set, and the Browns can easily find a player who can produce in the later rounds. While this running back class is weak, it isn’t void of talent.
Cornerback
The Cleveland Browns put a lot of pressure on their cornerbacks. Schwartz’s blitz-heavy defense leaves cornerbacks on an island. They need to start replenishing the talent and trying to find the next great cornerback. We’ve seen many quality corners come from the later rounds. Whoever they get is walking into a great situation. I would expect the team to take a swing on a corner or two in the NFL Draft.
Ultimately, the Cleveland Browns season comes down to whether Deshaun Watson can stay healthy and play like an elite quarterback. They gave up a lot of draft capital to get him and need him to produce if they are to be successful in a tough AFC conference.
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