For the first time in this series, we will be mock drafting with a team that doesn’t have a first-round pick this year. The Cleveland Browns are our next destination, and we will see who they will take this year.
Picks
- Round 2, Pick 54: DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
- Round 3, Pick 85: LB Marist Liufau, Notre Dame
- Round 5, Pick 156: CB Dwight McGlothern, Arkansas
- Round 6, Pick 206: T Julian Pearl, Illinois
- Round 7, Pick 243: DL Evan Anderson, Florida Atlantic
Explanation of Picks
Out of all the teams we’ve done so far, the Cleveland Browns have been the toughest to mock. It’s not a bad thing. But, the fact that they don’t have too many glaring needs, it was most a draft to provide depth.
One position that needed addressing was the defensive line. Dalvin Tomlinson and Shelby Harris aren’t getting any younger, after all. Jenkins is a great pick in the second round. With a PFF grade of 82.7, he’s one of the strongest guys in the draft who, against double teams, holds his own. However, he does have short arms and isn’t much of a pass rusher. But, at the end of the day, he is a great run-stopper and will make an impact when called upon.
Liufau is powerful and just attacks ball carriers with no intention of making any friends in the process. When he sheds blocks, you can see the power he brings and the linebacker just flies to the ball.
McGlothern comes in to serve as cornerback depth. His 91.3 PFF grade stands out, holding quarterbacks to just a 51.2 rating when targeted. He is simply a ball hawk, plays well in zone coverage, and has good upside.
Pearl continues to learn the tackle position and will need time to develop. But, the athletic qualities are there. Anderson adds to the defensive linemen depth, as he recorded 3.5 sacks for Florida Atlantic in 2023.
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Featured Image: Nic Antaya/Getty Images
