Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Every so often until draft day, I will be checking back in and writing a new mock draft for my lovable losers, the Cleveland Browns. Rankings change, especially after the combine, so I will try to keep these as fresh as possible. Cleveland has a lot of holes to fill after going 1-31 over their last two seasons. With 5 picks in the first 2 rounds, though, they should be able to get the pendulum swinging the other direction. I have used first-pick.com for this simulation. Keep in mind, this isn't what I think the Browns will do, simply what I WANT them to do.
Round 1, Pick 1: With no consensus #1 QB available, I took the Jet's offer of dropping down to 6 for their 2019 #1 pick and their 2018 2nd rounder. I know this may get some hate, but I see at least 3 of the QBs at about the same level, and that Jets pick will be valuable next year.
Round 1, Pick 4 (via HOU): Cleveland got this pick by trading back with the Texans in the pick that netted them Deshaun Watson, an early ROY candidate that got taken out with an ACL injury, and the misfire that most likely cost Sashi Brown his job in Cleveland. That Being said, Fitzpatrick is a dynamic playmaker in the defensive backfield, and can line up anywhere he is needed. The best bet is to play him at Free Safety, which would allow Jabril Peppers to play his more natural, closer to the line style. He is versatile enough to play Cornerback in the league as well. His swiss army knife status leads him to be a great pickup for a defense that needs help in the passing game.
Round 1, Pick 6 (via NYJ): Josh Rosen and Sam Darnold are both off the board, and both have their share of issues. Why I didn't mind trading back to #6 in this case is because I knew my guy would be there. Lamar Jackson has the potential to be the most electrifying player in the NFL. While many dismiss his QB ability due to his insane ability to run the ball, Jackon has steadily grown over the last few years into a very good passer, running pro-style concepts in Petrino's system at Louisville. He does have some footwork issues that need to be coached out of him, and might need to put on about 10 lbs, but he has everything you need to be a successful NFL QB. I might do a full breakdown on him, depending on my availability.
Round 2, Pick 1: Since I already have a shiny new toy at QB, how about getting him a buddy? Enter WR Anthony Miller. Miller's hands, catch radius, and change in direction compare favorably to Antonio Brown. This is a guy that you can lean on. With other Browns receivers being unreliable, Miller could step into the #1 spot if needed, or round out a great trio if all things go well with Gordon and Coleman.
Round 2, Pick 3 (via Hou): This is the pick the Browns essentially "bought" by taking Brock Oswieller's contract from Houston. Somehow, Guice is still on the board. This would instantly transform the Browns offense. Guice has a great combination of power, speed, and balance needed at the next level. Combined with the threat of Lamar Jackson, this ground game could do some damage.
Round 2, Pick 5 (via NYJ): This is the quick turnaround from the Jets trade down, and I'm switching back over to defense. Carlton Davis has the size you want in a cornerback, and plays with toughness. He's better in press-man, something I'm hoping the Browns play more of this year, and he's not afraid to get in on the run game.
Round 2, Pick 32 (via PHI): Man, this is a lot of picks for a 2 round mock. I'm tempted to go WR here again, but there are other spots that need filled. DT Derrick Nnadi from Florida State has great power and leverage, but gets lost in double teams sometimes. Playing next to a great young DL that includes Myles Garrett, Danny Shelton, and Emmanuel Ogbah will take the pressure off while he learns the ropes.
So there it is, sports fans! Comment below and let me know what you think, or post your own for the Browns or your favorite team and I'll give you my feedback.