Wasn't sure how to title this thread, but I thought we could highlight some of the guys who have been mocked to the Browns and look at their player profiles. I'll start with Felix Anudike-Uzomah.
It's best to check out the link on this one because there are videos, but here is the text.
Browns Film Room: Felix Anudike-Uzomah a perfect fit in the 2023 NFL Draft
Jacob Roach February 20, 2023 8:14 am ET
The 2023 NFL draft process marches on as the combine is set to start in Indianapolis at the end of the month. Draft boards will continue to change over time as the team needs change with free agency in March. The Cleveland Browns need to add talent on the defensive line and Felix Anudike-Uzomah from Kansas State would be a great fit for the team.
The tape is fun with Anudike-Uzomah as you see a player that can be effective in both the passing game and the running game. Let’s take a look at some of the film and numbers from Anudike-Uzomah with Kansas State.
Felix Anudike-Uzomah by the numbers
Felix Anudike-Uzomah is a two-year starter with the Wildcats checking in at 6-foot-3 and 252 pounds who made 16 starts in the last two seasons. A productive player with K-State who tallied 8.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss this season. In his sophomore season in 2021, he had 11 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss.
He possesses good size and strength to go along with some nice bend and athleticism off the line of scrimmage. In his sophomore season, he forced six fumbles while tallying two more forced fumbles this past season.
Impressive strength and an elite motor
The most impressive aspect of Anudike-Uzomah’s tape is his motor that never quits on a play unless the whistle blows. He has a nasty bull rush to go with a plethora of pass-rush moves that make him such an effective rusher. His play strength jumps off the tape and when mixed with his motor if the defensive backs hold their coverage he will get home and make a big play.
Mix that with great hand usage to go with a swim move and a spin move that is just fun to watch. He is a relentless rusher that will never give up on a play and makes the kind of effort plays that coaches love to see.
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Sets the edge and makes an impact in the run game
Anudkie-Uzomah is a better run defender than a pass rusher because of his strength and hand usage. He fights through blocks at an impressive rate and isn’t easily moved around by opposing offensive lines. A disciplined run defender that doesn’t give up his assignment or the edge and then fights to make a play.
His situational awareness to locate the ball carrier after spinning away from a blocker is something to see. He is always aware of where the ball carrier is and sniffs the play out a lot. He isn’t a perfect run defender but would be an instant upgrade for the Browns.
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Causes for Concern and Weaknesses
The biggest concern I have is his limited versatility, he isn’t completely useless if you put him inside but he loses his effectiveness. In the NFL he needs to play as an edge rusher over the tackle pretty much exclusively. You lose some of his best aspects on the inside but he is more than effective enough to just play outside.
Some scouts are concerned with his experience level having less than 30 starts played in college. However, he has shown enough growth and good tape to think he will continue to improve overall.
Finding Browns Fits in the 2023 NFL Draft: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, DE Kansas State The Cleveland Browns need all the pass rush help they can get and Kansas State defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah could be one of the best in this year's class.
PETE SMITHJAN 20, 2023 7:29 AM EST
CLEVELAND BROWNS With the season over and Jim Schwartz hired as defensive coordinator, the Cleveland Browns can put their attention into fixing their defense. Most of that will be focused on a defensive line that needs three new starters and would benefit from additional depth. Given the sheer amount of talent in the 2023 NFL Draft, it would be surprising if the Browns didn't partake, potentially as early as their first pick.
The switch to Schwartz may have a small impact on the types of defensive linemen the Browns want. It may broaden their horizons when it comes to the type of defensive ends they will consider. Schwartz has had plenty of success with bigger ends, but specifically with pass rushers, it could open the door for anyone as long as they can get to the passer and fit within the guardrails the Browns have established for the players they want to draft.
Namely, the Browns have no reason to change their approach to prospect age, preferences for arm length and athletic profiles.
The Browns are coming off a season in which they had 34 sacks as a team. 16 of those belong to Myles Garrett. The need is apparent. The track record of Schwartz combined with a loaded draft class incentivize the Browns to draft both an edge rusher and defensive tackle in addition to the starters they add through free agency or trades.
One talented option that could be a great fit for what the Browns want in an edge rusher with Schwartz could be Felix Anudike-Uzomah, a defensive end out of Kansas State.
Listed Measurables Height: 6'5"
Weight: 255 lbs
Anudike has a broad build with a low center of gravity. His listed height seems generous, but the weight does look legitimate. He's dense. Anudike is explosive off the ball, reaches his top speed quickly, though it wouldn't be a huge surprise if his top end speed doesn't set the world on fire.
Anudike is a natural bender, plays with good pad level and possesses the functional strength to cause problems for opponents he can beat with leverage. He's not a power rusher per se, but he has won with power and will use it to put the opponent off balance. His agility is noteworthy along with his ankle flexibility. He doesn't possess the hip flexibility to bend the edge but he's going to change direction effectively from the waist down and use his arms as levers to turn the corner.
Anudike has long arms and he's only going to be 21 at the time of the NFL Draft.
Production
2022: 31 solo tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one pass deflection in 14 games
2021: 37 solo tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, six forced fumbles in 13 games
Anudike has been one of the most productive pass rushers in the nation the past two seasons. His solo tackles weren't ideal this past season, but his sophomore season was excellent on that front.
Part of this comes down to the fact Anudike is a high effort player that is active in pursuit. He is relentless getting after the quarterback, but will chase down running backs or short passes. The fact that he's been as productive as he has while operating predominately out of an odd front is also noteworthy.
He's accustomed to facing help, often in the form of a second lineman. He can attack the tackle and have to account for a guard who's trying to establish a double team. That has forced him to understand how to get skinny to split the double team, isolate a single blocker, run the arc to avoid the second block and develop counter moves.
Anudike can attack up the field, slash inside, bull rush, swim, rip and flashes a spin move that has been good for when he's behind the quarterback and needs to work back to the line of scrimmage in pursuit. His violence with his arms stands out and he's able to keep opponents out of his chest. There are times when he will get stuck on single blocks or double teams, but he's often able to find a way to separate and keep himself viable.
His ability to play with low pad level and chase down the line has allowed him to chase down slow developing runs or take away cut back lanes.
On top of making plays behind the line of scrimmage, Anudike forced eight fumbles in 27 games, which is a credit to how he attacks the ball while tackling ball carriers, especially quarterbacks.
Why the Browns Could Like Him
Anudike is an impact pass rusher with upside. He's a player that could come in and contribute as a designated pass rusher as a rookie. That might be all he does as a rookie, which would be valuable.
The Browns are going to be in search of a starting caliber defensive end in free agency or through trade to play across from Myles Garrett. They will also have Alex Wright and Isaiah Thomas that will be in their second seasons. Wright, to this point, has been largely a run player, but offers the ability to kick inside to rush the passer. If Anudike is effective as a rookie and is DE3 or even DE4, the Browns would be in a great spot.
If the Browns get a lead or they are able to put the opponent in obvious passing situations, they can put a fresh Anudike on the field entirely focused on getting to the quarterback. If the Browns defense works as intended under Schwartz, that is the best case scenario. 25 to 30 snaps per game going full bore.
With more time and development, Anudike can become a full service player. He has shown he's capable, but just needs to acclimate to the rigors of the NFL. If he overachieves as a rookie, all the better.
The Bottom Line
Felix Anudike-Uzomah has put together one of the best pass rushing resumes in this year's draft class and has many of the qualities the Cleveland Browns seek in defensive end prospects. If they want to target a pass rusher early, it's difficult to imagine Anudike won't be on their short list.
Tyler Scott is another guy who has been linked to the Browns. I believe Milk brought him up first. I put this article in the PFF forum. I'll add it here.
Cincinnati WR Tyler Scott is a sleeper in the 2023 NFL Draft, but as an expected NFL Combine standout, it's only a matter of time before he's a household name.
Ian Cummings February 18, 2023
Cincinnati WR Tyler Scott doesn’t always get the buzz you’d expect from an early declare, but he has the 2023 NFL Draft scouting report to go off the board early this April. Here’s more on Scott, what’s led him to this point, and what his film does for his projection.
Numbers have been, and will continue to be, fairly kind to Scott. They were in high school, when the three-star athlete recruit ran for 44 touchdowns across his final two seasons and added three more scores as a kick returner.
They were kind in 2021, when Scott broke out with 520 yards and five touchdowns on 30 catches. And they were kind in 2022, when Scott upped the ante and went for 899 yards and nine touchdowns on 54 receptions, averaging 16.6 yards per catch.
Even with the production in mind, Scott’s unconfirmed numbers are even more impressive. He’s reportedly clocked a 4.29 40-yard dash, and there’s a definite speed element to his game that’s confirmed by the tape.
Scott is dynamic and versatile, and he did his best work after a notable QB change for the Cincinnati Bearcats. On the surface, his profile brings plenty to like. Taking a deep dive into the tape, let’s see what else he brings to the table.
Tyler Scott Scouting Report
Strengths
Explosive athlete who carries sudden burst out of cuts and can stretch seams downfield. Incredibly twitchy run-after-catch threat with impressive energy and foot speed. Has the short-area agility and body control to stop on a dime and swivel free from DBs. Has a unique brand of long-strider speed for his size, which he uses to attack space. Tracks the ball in the air with predator-like precision and effortlessly adjusts. Can extend beyond his frame, rise vertically, and snare high passes with authority. Has elite hand-eye coordination and precise timing when extending for passes. Hands are very reliable and naturally flow to the ball, even in contested situations. Has shown he can press into stems and use stride variations to offset DBs. Able to use his speed to manipulate blind spots and create space on quick outs.
Areas for Improvement
Has a noticeably lean frame with an average catch radius. Has excellent long speed, but isn’t always the breakaway threat that’s advertised. Doesn’t quite have elite deceleration ability and sink on comeback routes. Sometimes veers around as he’s decelerating and can be sharper at stems. At times, can better accelerate and press into stems, to bait DBs upfield. Can be easily interrupted and swayed by physicality out of releases. Expectedly struggles to sustain blocks in the run game with slight frame. Hand strength and composure decrease over the middle of the field. Speed gave him free releases often in college, minimizing press experience.
Cincinnati WR Tyler Scott’s Current Draft Projection Scott’s grade lands him in the top 75 on my board and places him as one of the top 12 wide receiver prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. One of the more under-the-radar early declares this cycle, Scott should emerge as the process unfolds and ultimately take home Day 2 capital.
Scott fits the modern mold of the NFL wide receiver with his athletic tools. At 5’11”, 185 pounds, he’s an elite accelerator with devastating twitch and suddenness in small areas. The twitchiest receivers make it look easy and effortless to offset DBs and accelerate out of cuts, and that’s what Scott does.
On top of his burst and agility, Scott also has high-level catching instincts. He’s one of the best receivers — not just smaller receivers — in the class at tracking the ball, coordinating, rising vertically, and timing his hands to secure passes. Even against tight coverage, he can maintain composure. That, along with his track speed, makes him a truly dangerous downfield threat.
Scott falls within a similar category of WR to fellow prospects like Josh Downs, Zay Flowers, and Jordan Addison. What keeps him from rising to their level on the board? Most notably, Scott isn’t quite as refined or consistent when it comes to maximizing his tools as a route runner. He can also be fazed by contact, both out of stems and over the middle of the field.
All that aside, Scott has one of the best combinations of dynamic athleticism and natural catching ability in the class, and that’s a mixture that should grant him early and frequent success in a space-dominated NFL, if utilized correctly.
Scott may need to acclimate early on, as his struggles with physicality could be magnified without elite efficiency as a separator or expansive press experience. But there’s no replacement for speed. Scott has that speed, both in the deep third and as a short-area mover. That, combined with his ability to rise vertically and snare passes, gives him impact starter upside and versatility early on.
Here is what PFF said about him in an article entitled Biggest sleepers in the 2023 NFL Draft class where they talk about several guys.
Quote
WR TYLER SCOTT, CINCINNATI
Scott may very well be the most underrated receiver in the draft class at the moment. His skill set is not too dissimilar to that of Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt, who’s getting love in some first-round mocks, but Scott didn’t get featured in the same kind of role that consistently went vertical. Even still, the Cincinnati receiver was no stranger to big plays, hauling in six deep passes last season. Scott possesses that same level of elite juice that makes Hyatt so appealing, with reportedly a 4.29-second 40-yard dash, a 40.5-inch vertical and an 11-foot broad jump in Cincinnati’s testing last offseason. Oh, and it shows on tape.
The No. 1 player on Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List, Mazi Smith has a rare combination of power and athletic traits. He probably will never be a lineman who fills up the stat sheet, but he is an immovable object in the run game and has the heavy hands and upper-body strength to toss massive guards.
From Bruce Feldman's Freak List:
1. Mazi Smith, Michigan, defensive tackle
His former teammate, Aidan Hutchinson, almost was our top guy in 2021, but this year a Wolverine is the No. 1 Freak in college football. The 6-foot-3, 337-pound senior has rare power and agility. So rare, in fact, it’s hard to find the right superlative to begin with. But let’s start with this: Smith does 22 reps on the bench press, but that’s with 325 (not 225). He close-grip benched 550 pounds. He vertical-jumps 33 inches. He broad-jumped 9-4 1/2. Smith, who had 37 tackles last season, has clocked a 4.41 shuttle time, which would’ve tied the best by any defensive tackle at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, and it would’ve been better than any defensive tackle weighing 310 pounds or more in the past decade. His 6.95 3-cone time would’ve been by far the fastest among defensive tackles in Indianapolis. The fastest was 7.33. Smith’s 60-yard shuttle time is 11.90.
The Wolverines do a reactive plyo stairs test, which is a series of seven 26-inch high stairs that players attempt to jump up as fast as possible. The team record is 2.21 seconds. Smith did it in 2.82. To better gauge just how impressive that is, Hutchinson, some 60 pounds lighter than Smith, did it in 2.57.
Even more remarkable: The Wolverines also do a workout on their combo-twist machine, which is designed to show a player’s ability to rotate an opponent but also their ability to resist being rotated in the trenches. Smith had the machine completely tapped out. There was only enough room for 300 pounds on each side of the machine for a 600-pound max.
“For Mazi, it wasn’t even challenging,” says one of the Wolverine strength coaches. A staffer called the manufacturer to see if there was a way to extend it, then ultimately contacted a private company to build custom extenders for the combo-twist, which made it capable of loading up to 800 pounds to accommodate Smith.
“Mazi’s rotational strength is ridiculous,” said longtime Michigan strength coach Ben Herbert, who said Smith is the strongest defensive lineman he’s seen in 25 years in the business. “He is an incredible combination of rare traits packaged into one player. He is just ridiculously strong and powerful.”
Here is a list of Mazi's strengths and weaknesses from a pretty cool site that seems to align w/many other opinions of him. I'll also post the link so people can see all the cool stuff this site offers.
SCOUTING REPORT: STRENGTHS
A compactly built, high-motor lineman, Smith brings a nice blend of power and quickness. Smith shows impressive get-off, often exploding off the line and getting into gaps before blockers can react.
Crazy athletic skills -- Made Bruce Feldman's 'Freaks List' at number 1. He wrote: "The 6-foot-3, 337-pound senior has rare power and agility. Smith does 22 reps on the bench press, but that’s with 325 (not 225). He close-grip benched 550 pounds. He vertical-jumps 33 inches. He broad-jumped 9-4 1/2. Smith, who had 37 tackles last season, has clocked a 4.41 shuttle time, which would’ve tied the best by any defensive tackle at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, and it would’ve been better than any defensive tackle weighing 310 pounds or more in the past decade. His 6.95 3-cone time would’ve been by far the fastest among defensive tackles in Indianapolis. The fastest was 7.33. Smith’s 60-yard shuttle time is 11.90."
Provides some secondary interior pass rush, getting most penetration when playing three-technique.
He has the strong core and powerful hands to shed blockers, and he shows excellent instincts with the ability to quickly locate the ball.
Can make the impressive chest-to-chest bear hug tackle in the hole due to his ability to wreak havoc in the backfield.
Amazing weight-room strength, which translates onto the field in terms of his anchor.
Smith plays with leverage and brings good power, especially in his lower body, consistently holding up against double teams in the run game.
SCOUTING REPORT: WEAKNESSES
He’s a bit stiff, as Smith lacks the flexibility to truly threaten the edge.
Smith frequently fails to locate the ball in the run game, too often taking himself out of plays.
Despite having impressive speed Smith lacks the elite suddenness as a mover you look for, and doesn't do enough in the pass rush when working one-on-one.
I'm partial to HUGE guy, Ika, 350 lbs........JMHO, it seems our brains and scouts aren't as good as our division rivals. CBS Sports rated draft classes of 22 and we came in LAST. Looking at what Chiefs got out of their picks and what we got----we ain't close. Go Browns!!!
"You've never lived till you've almost died, life has a flavor the protected will never know" A vet or cop
Just throwing some names out there that I've seen either mocked to us or mocked as going near our 2nd rnd pick:
WR
Josh Downs - North Carolina - very good at getting open, slot WR as he isn't all that big 5'10 175. Nate Dell - Houston - has excellent start/stop ability, hits top speed quickly, very good change of direction, slot WR as he is small 5'10 165
DT
Keeanu Benton - Wisconsin - High motor guy - very good at shedding blocks - does get upright to much.
S
Sydney Brown - Illinois - smooth and explosive in the open field - played mostly in the box this year but has played some as the deep safety and projects there in the NFL.
The descriptions are from what PFF had to say about the players.
I saw Siaki Ika mocked to the Browns on a CBS mock draft. He seemed like a very interesting possibility at an obvious position of need.
Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor | NFL Draft Scouting Report
Defensive tackles come in all shapes and sizes, but none in the 2023 NFL Draft are quite the same as Baylor Bears nose tackle Siaki Ika. There’s no mistaking the redshirt junior’s gargantuan frame, and at the same time, there’s no escaping it either. It’s easy to think of the Baylor DT as simply a big man clogging rushing lanes. However, as his scouting report reveals, Ika is more than just a giant roadblock at the heart of the defensive front. Siaki Ika NFL draft profile
Ika was born with NFL-ready size. While that might not be strictly true, he was a man amongst boys at the high school level, measuring in at 6’3″, and just shy of 300 pounds even early in his time at East High School. A Salt Lake City native, Ika was a long-time commit of BYU. However, a breakout season where he earned All-USA Utah Defensive Player of the Year honors saw him attract significant Power Five attention.
As a result, Ika committed to LSU in December 2018 and was a rotational piece on the Tigers’ 2019 national title winning team. He tallied 17 tackles with 1.5 for loss as a true freshman and was expected to elevate himself further in 2020. Unfortunately for Ika, a change of defensive scheme limited his opportunities and impact, and he entered the transfer portal having played just four games in his sophomore season.
LSU’s loss was Baylor’s gain, and the mammoth DT made a significant impact for the Bears’ Big 12 Championship-winning team. Tallying 24 total tackles, Ika was a menace in the backfield with six tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Showcasing a penchant for the big occasion, 2.5 of the tackles for loss came as Baylor defeated Oklahoma State in the title game. Ika was named Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year and earned second-team all-conference honors.
Although attracting attention in the previous cycle, Ika opted to return to Baylor for the 2022 college football season. In doing so, he put himself at the forefront of the 2023 NFL Draft interior defensive line class.
Position: Defensive Tackle
School: Baylor
Current year: Redshirt Junior
Height/weight: 6’4″, 358 pounds
Baylor’s draft classes have had a distinctly defensive feeling in the past three years, and with Ika, there’s a chance that continues in 2023. The positional value of true nose tackles isn’t high within the NFL, which could eventually impact how high Ika is selected.
As such, a first Baylor defensive selection on Day 1 since 2011 might be a stretch. Yet, Ika’s scouting report is enticing, and we’ll start it with the strengths the Baylor DT brings as a 2023 NFL Draft prospect. Ika’s strengths
Did we mention size at any point in the introduction to Ika’s scouting report? It seems almost blasé, but the Baylor DT’s sheer size is truly a strength. At 6’4″ and 358 pounds, there truly are few prospects that command space in the same way that Ika does. He’s the football equivalent of a dam blocking a river to prevent the village beneath it from being flooded. Trying to run your offense through the gap that he inhabits is simply futile. Remove Ika, and the Baylor defense would be substantially more susceptible to attack.
Like Jordan Davis in the previous cycle, Ika is the very definition of “two on me, somebody’s free.” In the games studied, he was routinely double-teamed due to the threat that his size — combined with other factors we’re about to discuss — presents to an offense. Football is a simple numbers game in some respects, and when one player commands the attention of two of his opponents, the equation is favorable for the team with the 6’4″, 358-pound man-mountain patrolling their side of the trenches.
Ironically, given presumptions associated with players of his size, Ika’s run-game ability isn’t the standout element of his game. Despite that, he does offer some upside against the ground game. Ika flashes a high-level ability to read the run and locate the ball carrier, while consistently being able to lay hands on the rusher regardless of their location. Ika isn’t overzealous in his approach to the ground game, instead remaining patient which helps with his overall effectiveness against the run.
What makes Ika’s scouting report so exciting is the upside he demonstrates in the passing game. Already, he has a blossoming pass-rush toolbox that includes chop and swim moves that he consistently deploys to a high level. The Baylor DT possesses fast, accurate, refined hands that rarely miss and allow him to dominate his opponent. Ika’s able to hit and redeploy with devastating quickness. While he’s not the longest DT in the class, he’s also able to disrupt the passing game by getting his hands up into passing lanes.
Saving the best for last, Ika boasts an impressive athletic profile. Very few players — let alone players of his size — have the explosion in their game that the Baylor DT possesses. Ika rockets out of his stance, regularly being the first defensive lineman into the backfield. This explosion is evident in his ability to penetrate gaps, whether against the run or in the passing game.
In addition to the explosion element of his athletic profile, Ika also boasts quick feet and decent lateral agility. He can redirect and change direction well for his size, and he’s capable of altering his pass-rush attack from the outside shoulder to the inside shoulder in a heartbeat. Meanwhile, Ika demonstrates good body control in these instances to ensure he slithers through gaps with relative ease.
While you don’t ideally want your 6’4″, 358-pound nose tackle to be the one chasing down ball carriers in the open field, Ika is capable of doing so. He isn’t fast in the same way that Georgia’s Davis was last year, but he hustles back to the ball carrier. One play against Oklahoma State last season is a good example of this ability. The Baylor DT also takes good angles to the ball carrier in pursuit.
Wrapping up the strengths of Ika’s 2023 NFL Draft scouting report is, well, strength. The Baylor DT is more than capable of pushing the pocket backward. He showcases excellent lower body strength to walk offensive linemen back into the path of their quarterback. There were multiple reps in the games studied where Ika pushed both elements of the double-team blocks backward, demonstrating some impressive upper body strength too. Ika’s area of improvement
While Ika boasts an alluring 2023 NFL Draft scouting report, it isn’t without areas for improvement. Meanwhile, there are some elements that might cause pause for an ascension to the very top of the class.
Although Ika has made a habit out of exploding into the backfield and was productive in his first season at DT for Baylor, he could have been even more so. He sometimes fails to finish, both as a pass rusher and run stopper. If he could work to ensure he brings down his man on the first attempt in the ground game or gains an extra split second of speed as a pass rusher, Ika would prove a more dominant threat in both phases.
Even though Ika has demonstrated a strong lower body with impressive body control and flexibility, there were several reps where he was relatively easily corralled to the floor by his opponent. This was less a result of being brutally bullied by power and seemed to be more an issue of balance.
It could also be a pad-level-related issue. Although the Baylor DT has showcased that he can win in the trenches by being the lower man, there are times when he plays high and leaves his chest open to attack. These instances lead to Ika being physically overwhelmed. Furthermore, he doesn’t possess elite length, which can be an issue when longer, powerful, offensive linemen are able to initiate contact. Current draft projection for Baylor DT Siaki Ika
Given his 6’4″, 358-pound mass, there’s an obvious and natural positional projection for Ika at the next level. He’s the epitome of a true nose tackle who can attract double-teams to allow his teammates to rack up the gaudy statistics while pushing the pocket to create pressure himself. Although Baylor has been known to align him as a 3-tech, he’ll be deployed over the center or as a 1-tech defensive tackle at the NFL level.
Ika has high-level starter potential in the NFL. How does that translate to draft day? At present, the Baylor DT should be viewed as an early Day 2 prospect at the very latest in the 2023 NFL Draft. His alluring combination of size, lower body strength, athletic prowess, and pass-rush upside are enough to mitigate the areas of improvement — especially given some of those are coachable elements. Ika’s an exciting prospect who can make a significant impact on the league early in his career.
Josh Downs - North Carolina - very good at getting open, slot WR as he isn't all that big 5'10 175.
JOSH DOWNS NORTH CAROLINA WR
Prospect Info COLLEGE North Carolina HOMETOWN CLASS Suwanee, GA Junior HEIGHT 5' 10" WEIGHT 175 lbs
Prospect Grade 6.41 Will Become Good Starter Within Two Years
Player Bio
Analysis By Lance Zierlein NFL Analyst
NFL Comparison Kadarius Toney
Overview Free-flowing athlete with dynamic footwork and an instinctive feel for how to elude opponents. Downs posted off-the-charts production over the last two seasons as an undersized slot with an oversized will. His confidence jumps off the tape and he has proven himself to be better at catching through contact than you might expect. While his route running is effective and fun to watch, coaches will need him to become more disciplined and efficient in order to maintain the timing of play designs. Downs might not have prototypical size, but he’s well-positioned to keep stacking catches and making plays as a starting NFL slot receiver.
Strengths -Supremely confident with outstanding production over last two seasons. -Appears to have both quickness and long speed. -Tempo changes create unease for man coverage. -Separation burst gains space through turns/cuts. -Footwork and change of direction are sudden and sharp. -Uses athleticism to elude defenders. -Leaps and adjusts to pick throws off defender’s head. -Surprising catch toughness for his size. -Slippery when asked to return punts.
Weaknesses -Below average build working into the middle. -Can be slowed by a physical press corner. -Needs to be more disciplined in route running. -Will leave routes unfinished at times. -Struggled with focus drops at times during career. -Unable to make a difference as a run blocker.
Here is a list of Mazi's strengths and weaknesses from a pretty cool site that seems to align w/many other opinions of him. I'll also post the link so people can see all the cool stuff this site offers.
SCOUTING REPORT: STRENGTHS
A compactly built, high-motor lineman, Smith brings a nice blend of power and quickness. Smith shows impressive get-off, often exploding off the line and getting into gaps before blockers can react.
Crazy athletic skills -- Made Bruce Feldman's 'Freaks List' at number 1. He wrote: "The 6-foot-3, 337-pound senior has rare power and agility. Smith does 22 reps on the bench press, but that’s with 325 (not 225). He close-grip benched 550 pounds. He vertical-jumps 33 inches. He broad-jumped 9-4 1/2. Smith, who had 37 tackles last season, has clocked a 4.41 shuttle time, which would’ve tied the best by any defensive tackle at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, and it would’ve been better than any defensive tackle weighing 310 pounds or more in the past decade. His 6.95 3-cone time would’ve been by far the fastest among defensive tackles in Indianapolis. The fastest was 7.33. Smith’s 60-yard shuttle time is 11.90."
Provides some secondary interior pass rush, getting most penetration when playing three-technique.
He has the strong core and powerful hands to shed blockers, and he shows excellent instincts with the ability to quickly locate the ball.
Can make the impressive chest-to-chest bear hug tackle in the hole due to his ability to wreak havoc in the backfield.
Amazing weight-room strength, which translates onto the field in terms of his anchor.
Smith plays with leverage and brings good power, especially in his lower body, consistently holding up against double teams in the run game.
SCOUTING REPORT: WEAKNESSES
He’s a bit stiff, as Smith lacks the flexibility to truly threaten the edge.
Smith frequently fails to locate the ball in the run game, too often taking himself out of plays.
Despite having impressive speed Smith lacks the elite suddenness as a mover you look for, and doesn't do enough in the pass rush when working one-on-one.
Mazi Smith is who I am really hoping for but if his combine shows the same measurables as listed I think he will move up to 1st round. He does have a gun possession charge against him that may scare off some teams.
Romans 10:9 "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in thy heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."
Pros: Footwork king. Build in a lab to demolish an agility ladder. High-level understanding of how to get open. Lot of tricks up his sleeve as a route-runner. Attacks the football in the air like a man much bigger. Always thinks the ball is his.
Cons: Limited catch radius at his size. Makes working the seams difficult. Top-end speed is average for a receiver his size. Makes it hard to see him on the outside in the NFL. Not the guy you want lead blocking a screen or crack blocking a linebacker.
Where he wins: Footwork You don't want to see Downs' feet pattering as he approaches you off the line. He's one of the best in the class at not telegraphing his breaks before striding away from defenders.
What's his role: Slot You don't want to see Downs' feet pattering as he approaches you off the line. He's one of the best in the class at not telegraphing his breaks before striding away from defenders.
Where he can improve: Size Slot receivers are getting bigger around the NFL because of the run-blocking prowess required. Downs' lack of size really shows up when defenders are able to get their hands on him.
Receiving grade: 86.5 Receiving grade vs Man: 92.1 Receiving grade vs zone: 73.4 Yards per route run: 2.17 Contested catch rate: 72.2%
I have not seen a guy do things with his feet like Zay Flowers since Eric Metcalf.
More on Flowers:
ZAY FLOWERS
WR Boston College Senior #39 5'10" 172lbs Prospect Atlantic Coast 2022 Season REC
78
YDS
1077
TD
12
YDS/REC
13.808
Prospect Summary Zay Flowers NFL Draft Scouting Report WR, Boston College Eagles Entering Boston College as a three-star recruit, wide receiver Zay Flowers found his way onto the field as a freshman. Flowers’ toughness and competitive drive stem from having 13 siblings and being the fourth youngest in the family. He played football in full pads in his backyard at the age of 4—he loves the game.
Flowers has continued to increase his productivity and impact on BC’s offense. Flowers is having the best year of his college career, posting career highs in receptions, yards, touchdowns, and yards after the catch in 2022. He provides inside and outside versatility. Flowers has improved his ability to track the football while it’s in the air. Despite his smaller frame, he is far more competitive at the catch point this season. He has reeled in 50% contested catch targets this season. Flowers does an outstanding job attacking the defender’s leverage with his route speed and tempo. Once the ball is in his hands, he is an explosive and dynamic threat to generate big plays.
While his athleticism is promising, Flowers does not present a big frame or catch radius. This will limit the opportunities a quarterback will trust him with in regard to targets. Flowers must improve his drops to prove his reliability to an NFL coaching staff. He has been charged with 24 drops over his career at BC with an 11% drop rate. As we have seen, no matter how talented a wide receiver is, dropping passes will not be tolerated. Flowers faces a high amount of off-coverage and free releases. This leaves a lot to be imagined regarding his release package. The question that will be asked is, will his size force him into a slot-only role in the NFL?
Projecting to the next level, Flowers’ lack of height and weight are a concern. As a result, some teams may view him as a slot-only receiver. His overall skill set and package are enticing. Flowers’ versatility will make it easier for coordinators to dial his number and get the football in his hands. The plan a team has for him in year one should revolve around pre-snap motion, manufactured touches in space, and quick-hitting routes with run-after-catch opportunities. After a few seasons in the league, Flowers could develop into an impactful and dynamic chain-mover for his offense.
Top Reasons to Buy In:
An electric player in space Three-level receiving threat Dynamic run-after-catch option
Top Reasons For Concern:
Lack of mass and height Inconsistent hands (catching) Functional strength as a run blocker Size (TBD):
Height: 5110
Weight: 172 lbs
Ideal Role: Movement Z-receiver, aligns outside, in stacks/bunch set, and the slot
Scheme Fit: Spread concepts with ample 11-personnel packages and pre-snap motion
His competitiveness and knack for high-pointing the ball allow him to play bigger than his size
He’s excellent downfield, accelerating to top speed quickly and stacking on top of cornerbacks. He has excellent body control, contorting to make difficult catches and working well on back-shoulder throws
Has experience as a punt returner – will likely be used in that capacity as he develops in the pros
Good hands who goes up and attacks the ball to bring it in in contested catch situations
Weaknesses
Mims is small at 5-11 and just a little over 180lbs and as a result will be outmuscled by bigger DBs. He will likely be limited to slot player
He’ll have to develop a better feel for sitting down against zone coverage
While he has good speed – it isn’t elite and may reduce his chance of being selected high
Marvin Mims Jr. in Mock Drafts
According to NFL Mock Draft Database, Mims Jr. is projected as a third-round pick. His limited use in the NFL pushes him outside of the first couple rounds. He has some nice upside but teams are unlikely to use top picks on him. Mims Jr. has not shown up in any recent mock drafts. Before the season, Mims Jr. was projected as a first-round pick but has fallen out of favor with many scouts.
Keep them coming Vers, this is the kind of stuff I like. I don't get to see many college games, and it is nice to get some good info on draft prospects.
I like Marvin Mims and mentioned his in an earlier thread. Seems like there could be some real value when the Browns are picking in the second or third round.
This is where I'm at. It's early, but I am really liking Tyler Scott. A lot can change.
The replies on this thread have been great so far. Real football talk that can help us all learn. Thanks for that.
I'd be thrilled to land Scott, Mims, Downs or Flowers. I think Scott, Mims and Flowers provide more of a deep threat. It'll be interesting to see what Berry does with WR position. The Browns would essentially putting Bell on the backburner (which I am fine with) as the Browns desperately need more of a weapon capable of breaking one on the field. Need to get more athletic.
I also would be pleased with a guy like Mazi Smith or Calijah Kancey (he could likely be gone before Browns pick in the 2nd) on the interior DL and hope to land a WR in the 3rd. Possibly trade Newsome or Emerson to get back into the second?
The following is part of a larger article from the Browns Wire. Another DT to consider. There are a couple of short videos and FA predictions if you want to click on the link.
Bio for Keeanu Benton and his career at Wisconsin
Browns Film Room: Why Keeanu Benton is dominating the Senior Bowl Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Keeanu Benton is a Senior checking in at 6-foot-4 weighing in at 317 pounds playing primarily as a nose tackle in college. He started all 12 games this season and in 2021 after playing in 15 games total his first two seasons. The production took a step forward this year finishing with 10 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.
Most of what Benton does on tape doesn’t show up on tape as he anchors the line and doesn’t allow much ground in the run game. For the past two seasons, Benton had two pass breakups and does an excellent job to disrupt passing lanes with his arms.
Benton absorbs blocks and clogs the rushing lanes Browns Film Room: Why Keeanu Benton is dominating the Senior Bowl
Wisconsin nose tackle Keeanu Benton (95) recovers a fumble by Iowa quarterback Spencer Petras during the second quarter of their game on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at Camp
One of the reasons the Browns’ linebackers struggled last season was that the defensive tackles could not keep them clean. Guys were constantly driven back or able to climb to the second level and block the linebackers. Benton excels at clogging the lane while eating double teams to keep athletic linebackers clean to make plays.
Plays like this do not show up in the stat column at the end of the day and it’s put as the dirty work. As you can see in this clip Benton takes on double teams not giving up much ground so his teammates can make the plays.
Benton often lines up over the center as a nose and wears number 95.
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00:00 00:26
Plays with great strength and sneaky burst against the run Browns Film Room: Why Keeanu Benton is dominating the Senior Bowl Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
It’s not just eating blocks that Benton does well against the run as he makes plenty of plays that show up in the stat column. He is a massive human and plays will great strength to push the line of scrimmage and get to the running backs. If Benton is in a one-on-one in the run game he can overpower a good amount of linemen to make the play with his power.
He has a surprising burst off the line for someone of his size that sometimes surprises offensive linemen as he uses a great swim move to slip past them. Though Benton is by no means a first-round talent his impact on the run game would be immediate in Cleveland.
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Keeanu Benton's weakness
As good as Benton is in the run game he struggles to be consistent as a pass rusher. He lacks a true pass-rush plan and if he isn’t able to overpower with his bull rush he won’t make much of an impact. Though he does possess burst off the line of scrimmage and sneaky good athleticism he isn’t able to use it consistently to win as a rusher.
He needs refinement in his technique because you see some flashes on tape that show he can make the plays. Early in his career in the NFL he likely won’t be a three-down player but in obvious run situations, he would be night and day from what the Browns had this past season.
Was about to post last night but my eyes were about crossed from reading and watching tape of all the IDL candidates.
After the initial eye test, Benton is my #1.
Ika isn't that far off, I think he does a great job of sticking to blocks (especially double teams) and keeping LBs clean -- something we desperately need. I don't think he's as strong as Benton, nor does he possess the natural leverage; hands aren't as angry either. These dudes 'dinged up' all the time. If I can get someone out of college with good hands, great strength and naturally plays with great leverage, I know I'm ahead of the curve.
Bottom line to this thread is even though we don't have a #1 pick there are good players available to us in the 2nd and 3rd rounds that should be able to help us right away. The later rounds are anyone's guess but hopefully we will be able to find some productive guys there too.
Bottom line to this thread is even though we don't have a #1 pick there are good players available to us in the 2nd and 3rd rounds that should be able to help us right away. The later rounds are anyone's guess but hopefully we will be able to find some productive guys there too.
Good post. I appreciate the effort of Vers to start this thread and the efforts of others to contribute. I don’t watch a lot if college ball so don’t know the names. Plus we’re not picking in the first round so who knows who we’ll have available?
DL and WR. We have in heavily invest in those two position groups.
Thanks lamp. You are correct that we don't know who will be available, but the players highlighted in this thread have been mocked to us. That means they are projected to be drafted around the time we are on the clock. Not an exact science, but better than just throwing out names.
Here is a guy that bonefish likes. His name is Antonio Johnson, a safety out of Texas A&M. This profile is from PFF. bone has more info on him and he may want to post it on this thread.
Quote
A four-star recruit, Johnson started Texas A&M's 2020 bowl game as a true freshman, aligning in the slot for all but one of his 67 snaps in that game. He opened 2021 as a starter and held that starting spot through the rest of his college career, producing 80.0-plus PFF grades in both of his final seasons. He has experience at both safety spots and in the slot, which fits with what many teams are looking for in today's NFL. He registered 54 defensive stops over the past two seasons.
SHADES OF Ryan Neal
PROS Very long safety with a big tackle radius. Burst at a standstill is elite. Cranks it up hot in a hurry. Knows how to find the football. So good at working around blocks out wide to do so.
CONS Really played only slot in his career. Logged 123 snaps at deep safety. Flipping his hips can get a little clunky. Best around the line of scrimmage. Ball production was nonexistent. One pick and one pass breakup in his career.
Round 2 (No. 42 overall): DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Kansas State
Anudike-Uzomah recorded 20.5 sacks in three college seasons, and he has enough natural pass-rush ability to think he can become the Browns’ long-term complement to Myles Garrett. He’s No. 67 on Brugler’s early top-100 list but is starting to pop up near the bottom of the first round in some mock drafts, so the Browns won’t be the only team taking an up-close combine look at Anudike-Uzomah in Indianapolis. Anudike-Uzomah was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 after he recorded 8.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.
Round 3 (No. 98): WR Marvin Mims, Oklahoma
Mims has big-play pop. He averaged almost 20 yards per reception and scored 20 touchdowns in three college seasons, and he had enough speed that Oklahoma believed he could also turn jet sweeps and quick screens into big plays. Mims is just 20 years old. He averaged 22 yards per reception in 2021 in the Lincoln Riley offense, then went over 1,000 yards last year.
Round 4 (Vikings’ pick plus their own pick, slots still TBD)
DT Jaquelin Roy, LSU
The Browns have valued pass-rush ability in their defensive tackles. We don’t know exactly what Schwartz wants in his defensive tackles, but we know the Browns will be remaking the group in the coming weeks. Pro Football Focus graded Roy as recording 42 quarterback hurries and 13 quarterback hits over his final two college seasons, and he was one of several intriguing prospects on LSU’s defense last fall.
RB Roschon Johnson, Texas
He didn’t start in college, but that’s because he played behind Bijan Robinson. Some believe Robinson is the draft’s best running back prospect in several years, but Johnson is an interesting prospect in his own right. Texas listed Johnson at 222 pounds, and not long ago he was a decorated quarterback recruit. He’s powerful and still should have his best football ahead of him. Nick Chubb is the Browns’ lead back for probably two more seasons, and in what shapes up as a really good running back class, it’s time for the Browns to invest a third-day pick in a player who can help keep Chubb fresh and keep the offense moving.
Round 5 (Rams’ pick plus their own pick)
DE Habakkuk Baldonado, Pitt
Baldonado he plays a premium position and has shown natural pass-rush ability. Baldonado had 11 sacks over his final two seasons and blocked two kicks in nine games last year. He was a semifinalist for the Campbell Trophy, which goes to college football’s top scholar-athlete. For a five-year college player, he still hasn’t played a ton — and he makes for an interesting third-day selection. He took up American football as a high schooler in his native Italy and played just one year of high school football in America.
LB Isaiah Land, Florida A&M
A “traits” prospect who’s around 6-foot-4, 225 pounds and can play a variety of positions. The present and future of the Browns’ linebacker group are wide open, and Land is the kind of player who figures to pop for the Browns as they look for a developmental prospect and someone who could end up contributing in his rookie season in Schwartz’s various defensive packages. Land is likely to create some buzz at the combine with his physical gifts and athletic testing numbers.
Round 6: S Trey Dean, Florida
I actually think the Browns will use a higher pick on a safety unless they acquire one in free agency. There’s little chance John Johnson III will be back at his cap number of more than $12 million; even if Johnson returns at a reduced number, the Browns need depth at safety.
Round 7: TE Zack Kuntz, Old Dominion
Kuntz is an intriguing prospect; he’s listed at 6-foot-8 and had a big season at Old Dominion in 2021 after transferring from Penn State. His senior season was cut short by injury. The Browns want to be more of an open team going forward and get away from their three tight-end sets, but every NFL team is searching for tight end help. Harrison Bryant is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and though David Njoku is in the long-term plans as the No. 1 tight end, 2023 is the last year Njoku’s contract carries big guarantees.
I'd be happy with Anudike-Uzomah and Mims w/our first two picks. I don't know anything about the other guys on Zac's list although I know there has a bit of a buzz around Kuntz.
Perhaps, but it's obvious that this year's FA WR class is horrid and that there are a ton of FA defensive linemen to consider at this point in time. Anyway, getting Anudike-Uzomah in the 2nd and Mims in the 3rd would be wonderful. Not sure if either will be available in those spots. I think both guys are starting to rise. We'll see what the word is after the Combine.
15 2023 NFL Draft prospects for Browns to follow at the NFL Scouting Combine Cory Kinnan February 25, 2023 10:23 am ET
The Cleveland Browns have holes to fill on their roster as free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft rolls closer. However, before we get there, first comes the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, where general managers, head coaches, and agents are known for wheeling and dealing behind the scenes.
The combine also has massive NFL Draft implications for the Browns as they have needs at defensive tackle, defensive end, and wide receiver before we reach Week 1 of the season. Here are 15 players to keep a close eye on as they travel to Indianapolis, Indiana for the biggest job interviews of their lives next week.
Defensive tackle is an obvious need for the Browns, and they may find a bargain in the third round in Alabama defensive tackle Byron Young. He has refined hands, an explosive first step, and a sturdy strength profile to two-gap and take on double teams. If the NFL wants to let one of the best defensive tackles in the class drop to the third round, the Browns should jump on it.
Another defensive tackle, Wisconsin’s Keeanu Benton is my DT4 even if his draft stock does appear to be higher than that of Young. He possesses long arms and light feet to wreck pockets in pursuit of quarterbacks. Benton is a target at 42 or if the Browns make a small trade down deeper into the second round.
3 WR Tyler Scott, Cincinnati Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine A firm target at pick 42, Cincinnati wide receiver Tyler Scott is not going to be a sleeper for much longer. He is anticipated to run a low 4.3 40-yard dash and is a twitch and explosive athlete who effortlessly throttles between tempos. This makes him an excellent and sudden route runner even with his top-end linear speed. Look for Scott to have a big week.
4 WR Josh Downs, North Carolina Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
North Carolina’s Josh Downs is the only other receiver at 42 that moves me. People like Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt, but it’s a good thing he will likely be gone by the time the Browns come on the clock as he only has one track and is not a great route runner. Let the league overdraft on speed while nuanced and electric playmakers like Downs continue to drop.
This is the dream at pick 42. If LSU’s B.J. Ojulari somehow falls out of the first round, he should not make it past the Browns. He is long, explosive, bendy, and a nuanced pass rusher with a nasty ghost move in his toolbox. The Browns need a long-term pass rusher across from Myles Garrett, and Ojulari can be that guy even if he is not in the usual big end frame the Browns have preferred.
6 C Joe Tippmann, Wisconsin Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine The interior offensive line is going to be a sneaky need for the Browns. As they have the most contracts over $10 million in the entire NFL, they will have to make concessions somewhere. Ethan Pocic is likely that concession this year, and Wyatt Teller may have limited time left in the brown and orange as well.
Wisconsin center Joe Tippman is athletic, a fit in the Browns’ wide zone run scheme, and plays with a nasty streak. Tippman, however, may not make it out of the second round so he could be a trade-back candidate.
He is going to test like an absolute monster. And stacking that on top of a dynamic Senior Bowl showing, Northwestern defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore could be set to see his draft stock soar. The problem, however? His tape just doesn’t add up to more than a late third or early fourth round pick. So some teams may over-draft Adebawore out of the range of the Browns, but if he is on the board for their third or fourth rounder, the Northwestern defensive lineman would be a great fit with Jim Schwartz.
8 S Jammie Robinson, Florida State Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
With both bite and bark, Florida State safety Jammie Robinson is one of the pound-for-pound toughest players in the class. He can play over the top, in the slot, or the box, making him quite versatile as well. The Browns will likely be replacing two safeties this offseason, so Robinson would be a great fit in Cleveland as a nickel who would not struggle to fit the run or a moveable safety.
9 TE Payne Durham, Purdue Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Harrison Bryant is entering the last year of his deal, so the Browns may look to draft a young running mate next to David Njoku on day three of the draft. If they do that, Purdue’s Payne Durham would be a great target. He has a massive catch radius and has proven to have more wiggle at the top of his routes than one would guess a man his size would have. After a strong Senior Bowl showing, Durham looks to stack events at the combine next week as well.
A guy who can play both off the edge and along the interior of a defensive line, USC’s Tuli Tuipulotu output extraordinary production for the Trojans this year. While he is on the stiffer side and will not win along the outside shoulder, he is a strong run defender who is not afraid to work through the chest of the man across from him.
If Wisconsin pass rusher Nick Herbig was two inches taller and 30 pounds heavier, he would be a first round pick. However, his lack of size shows up in the run game. As the Browns look for a new SAM linebacker, Herbig could fit that mold in base defense looks, then slide out as a designated pass rusher in obvious passing situations. Despite being a tweener, Herbig is not a positionless player and is worth pounding the table for.
12 CB Kei'Trel Clark, Louisville Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine Greg Newsome II no longer wants to play in the nickel, and that position is a massive contributor for the Browns. Running out of nickel looks over 70 percent of the time, that is a starting position. Louisville’s Kei’Trel Clark, while he played outside at Louisville, likely kicks inside at the next level. He is mean and is not afraid to work downhill either, so fitting the run as often as the nickel is asked to do for the Browns would not be an issue for Clark.
13 C Luke Wypler, Ohio State Browns 2023 NFL Draft NFL Scouting Combine Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Another wide zone center who has the tools to get to the boundary as often as he would be asked to do in Cleveland is just a short drive away. Ohio State’s Luke Wypler has been as sturdy as they come for the Buckeyes since he started Week 1 as a redshirt freshman a year ago. With good eyes, intriguing lower-half tools, and a strong base in pass protection, Wypler looks destined to have a long NFL career.
If the Browns wait until their third rounder to snag a wide receiver, Marvin Mims is the guy. While he is an outlier in size, he is explosive down the field, tracks the football at a high level, and has strong hands to play through traffic despite being on the smaller side. The issue with Mims, however, is that his route tree is not nuanced and is almost exclusively vertical.
The Browns need to bring a veteran linebacker or two back in free agency. Between Anthony Walker Jr., Sione Takitaki (who will likely miss most of the season), and Deion Jones, the Browns cannot void every veteran from that room.
However, they also must draft a young guy who can take over at MIKE, and Tulane’s Dorian Williams checks all of their boxes from measurables, athleticism, and production. Williams will look to solidify those athletic traits next week in Indianapolis.
The draft can be overwhelming. When you have a pick in the first round it is easier to scout and cover 32 guys.
Two rounds it gets way tougher.
I was thinking about Mike Mayock. He announced college games and was a fixture covering the draft. Experienced guy, former player, well respected. Knows everybody.
Gets a GM job. It did not go well. He bombed on first rounders. Most likely he will never get another GM job.
It is really hard to forecast players into the NFL. When you think of all the time, money and resources spent on scouting and drafting players. It is crazy how many misses there are. I mean you would think that the top 32 players in the country would be close to sure things. Far from it.
As each round passes it gets harder and harder. And every year there are guys like Purdy. Or, some undrafted guy makes a roster and balls.
I watched Hard Knocks with the Lions. Amon-Ra St. Brown was tearing up camp. He looked like a guy who not be denied.
He was a fourth rounder. Ran a 4.59. He has over 2k yards and 196 catches in his first two years.
Selecting players in the draft is not for puscatores.
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