Looking forward to 2019, Browns NFL Rookie Draft

NFL Draft 2019: Marquise Brown, Ed Oliver and 7 other players the Browns could trade up for
By Tim Bielik, cleveland.com | Posted January 28, 2019


Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver could be a trade-up target for the Browns, who pick 17th in the 2019 NFL Draft. (Michael Wyke, Associated Press)

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Browns are one of the most intriguing teams entering the offseason following a 7-8-1 record. Armed with 11 picks in the 2019 NFL Draft, a massive amount of cap space and a big draw for free agents in quarterback Baker Mayfield, they have plenty of room to make noise.

But considering that the team should contend for a playoff spot in 2019, having 11 rookies on the roster probably won’t happen.

That means trading up, something the Browns haven’t often done in the early rounds in recent years. Who could they move for?

Here are some players that could be trade-up options from the Browns picks at No. 17 and 49.






Trading up from No. 17




Rashan Gary, DL, Michigan
Gary enters the draft as one of the more unique players at the top. He has defensive tackle size, and the athletic ability to move outside.

He provides a pass rush from the edge and the interior.

One concern is he doesn’t have the stat line that other top prospects have with only 9.5 career sacks and 23 tackles for loss.

With the depth at defensive line, one is bound to slide. If Gary is that guy, the Browns could make a move up and put him opposite Myles Garrett and Larry Ogunjobi, putting him in a situation where teams will target his less in pass protection. His versatility makes him valuable, and he could give the Browns more athleticism up front.




Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
Oliver is arguably as talented as any player in the draft. The question that comes up with him is his size, or lack of for a defensive tackle in the NFL.

The question will be if the teams at the top of the draft ignore what he isn’t and realize what he is: a disruptive force in a game where interior pass rush is more and more important.

Oliver is less likely to slide than Gary because of his pure talent and production at Houston. The Browns need a defensive tackle. And if Oliver slides outside the top 10, they could make a call to move up and add him to their young defensive talent.








Devin White, LB, LSU
Linebacker is a need on the team that isn’t as pronounced as defensive line or offensive tackle. What happens with Jamie Collins and his contract will be something to watch in the next few weeks. And if he is released, there’s room for a third linebacker in a base 4-3 next to Christian Kirksey and Joe Schobert, or to rotate in nickel or dime situations.

The team to watch with White will be the Bengals at No. 11, who might need a linebacker more than anyone in the draft right now.

If White falls past Cincinnati, then he might not last long if a team like the Browns wants to move for him.












Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
It might seem odd to suggest the Browns could trade up for a cornerback after just drafting a Pro Bowler in Denzel Ward last season. But just as you can never have enough 3-point shooters in the NBA, you can never have enough good corners in football.

But Williams could be a great complement to Ward. At 6-foot-3, Williams has the size and length that Ward doesn’t have, which could give the Browns a corner for tall receivers and one for shorter, faster ones.

The top two tiers in the draft right now are very fluid. There’s a good fit between Williams and the Browns that a trade up for him could help add strength to the secondary






Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
Now that the Browns have their quarterback in Mayfield, there’s two things the Browns need to do:

1. Protect him

2. Give him weapons

When it comes to step No. 1, Williams is considered the best offensive tackle in the class. If the Browns deem him much better than West Virginia’s Yodny Cajuste, Washington State’s Andre Dillard and Ole Miss’ Greg Little among others, he should be a trade-up target.

The question is if he will drop down into trade range. It depends on whether teams thing he can play tackle, or if he is better as a guard like Greg Gabriel of Pro Football Weekly suggested.

Williams was good as a tackle at Alabama, and could be good in Cleveland if John Dorsey decides he is a tackle.





Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
Moving on to step two in the plan to enhance Mayfield is looking at a player he knows very well.

Brown could go in the first round because of his remarkable speed. But he could slide depending on how concerned teams are about his lack of size at 5-foot-10, 168 pounds.

Dorsey’s recent history, which includes Antonio Callaway and Tyreek Hill, suggests he likes speed at receiver. Brown, who is the cousin of Steelers receiver Antonio Brown, has speed and lots of it. The Browns need a gamebreaker at receiver. And given Marquise’s history with Mayfield, the two could reunite if he indeed falls.







Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech
Ferguson was one of the big names to come out of the Senior Bowl last week. It’s a little surprising that it took until last week for the NCAA career sacks leader (45) to get some attention.

But again, the depth of defensive linemen in the class mean that someone is going to slide.

Depending on what the Browns do in free agency and at No. 17, they might still need more pass-rush depth behind Garrett and Emmanuel Ogbah.

If Ferguson continues to rise, he won’t make it to No. 49. So if the Browns want to get him, they might have to make a move to do it.








Kelvin Harmon, WR, N.C. State
This receiver class is not strong at the top, but there are a lot of guys that could go in the second and third rounds of the draft.

Harmon is a much bigger receiver than Marquise Brown at 6-foot-3. And although he isn’t the fastest receiver, Joe Marino of TheDraftNetwork.com likes Harmon’s route-running ability and how he finds the football.

The second round could see a run on receiver. And Harmon is more of a total package receiver than Brown. Of the main receivers on the Browns, no one is taller than 6-foot-2.

Size is a reason Harmon could be a fit for the Browns, and a reason to move up for him in the second round.






Trayvon Mullen, CB, Clemson
At 6-foot-1, Mullen doesn’t have the big frame that Greedy Williams does. But he could be a good complement to Ward and give the Browns a top corner with size.

Mullen started 26 games in the last two seasons with four interceptions and 12 passes defensed. Those may not be spectacular numbers. But he played his best in the biggest game, getting an interception and earning Defensive MVP honors in Clemson’s 44-16 blowout of Alabama in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Mullen has first-round potential depending on how he does at the NFL Scouting Combine. But if he slides, his frame and physicality are worth taking a chance on in a trade-up.

 

The latest CBS mock has us going WR in Rd.1...

17. Cleveland Browns
Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma. As strange as it sounds, the Browns might the team with the fewest roster holes picking in the first round. If they bring back Greg Robinson after a solid second half or otherwise address the left tackle spot, they don't need much else. One possibility is a deep threat at receiver after pulling the plug on Josh Gordon, and who better for the role than Baker Mayfield's old running mate at Oklahoma? He's a playmaker who has everything you want except plus size.

FTR, they have three posted mocks. The others have us selecting D.K. Metcalf and Jonah Williams...

 

Offense, you guys need oline and WRs. Mayfield is where your future lies, go and make him as comfortable as possible. The Steelers had a great defense but Ben was getting killed behind a shitty oline in his early career.

 

Do as I say?

Roethlisberger was drafted in 2004 and the Steelers didn't spend a first round pick on an offensive lineman until 2010 (M. Pouncey)... a center.

 

I agree with this 1000%, which is why, unless they trade down, I hope they stay away from WR position in the first round. I don't see a single receiver worthy of the #17 pick. I see a few CBs, a half dozen DTs, a handful of DEs, a few LBs and two QBs (which we obviously don't need). I am really down on this OT class, I see a couple of impact Gs. The WRs are solid, but not dominant imho. I think there are a number of WRs that could help our team, but I would prefer they took them in the 2nd or even lower.

If there was an offensive player that I had a high opinion of, I would tell them to go for it, because I think Baker Mayfield is the future of this team. Players will come and go on both sides of the ball, but he will determine our future outcome year in and year out. I simply don't see a player that would impact the offense worthy of the #17 pick....Now, again, if Kyler Murray is there at #17 and they can turn that pick into something to build with, then go for it... But, if they have to move out of the first, forget it..


Man, looking over this draft again...I still don't see a true #1 WR, but it us FULL TO THE GILLS of WRs that can be had in any round.

 

I'm all for protecting Baker, and that's why Robinson is so important to get signed....Truth is, Mayfield was barely touched after Freddie took over the offense.

I obviously agree with the writer's notion that if Cleveland can land Baker Mayfield a blue chip WR , that would seem to make a lot of sense. I think he is correct in that the plan was for that to be Josh Gordon. Obviously he's out of the picture for good and I'm glad about that....

We have a nice thing going with Landry and Callaway, but do we have a true #1 NFL WR on the roster? I'd argue we have a nice group, but no true #1...Perhaps D.K Metcalf or Marquise Brown could be that guy they were hoping Gordon would be....Imagine what Mayfield could do with a superstar WR.

 

I'm looking forward to the Combine, but I really like Metcalf and Brown. Those two kinda stand out at the top for me right now, and I think either could develope into true #1 NFL WR....Wouldn't surprise me a bit if they were both off the board before #17.

 

IMHO Callaway can develop into that #1 guy your looking for TD. I have a feeling that's why Dorsey took a chance on him. Once he learns the nuances of being a WR in the NFL I think he'll be even better.

 

The one WR I like in this draft is...


J.J. Arcega-Whiteside WR Stanford HT: 6’3 WT: 225 lbs

Spoiler

Route Running – Arcega-Whiteside has conscious technique as a route runner, and while he has some physical limitations, he’s refined nearly all other aspects in this area. His releases against press coverage are dominant, as he gets out of his stance in an immediately squared position. With fast feet in short bursts, he moves laterally well to clear his hips of the defensive back. Additionally, his hand usage consistently keeps his pads clean. Considering his size, the combination of fast feet, lateral agility and hand usage allows him to get into his vertical routes. He senses space well on his curl routes, finding windows in-between zone drops. While Arcega-Whiteside has shiftiness in his hips, his horizontal breaks are a bit limited. He either needs an extra step to get defined or slows down to an almost complete stop. Additionally, he could use his hands more at the top of the route to clear his pads and allow for more acceleration out of breaks.

Athleticism/ Speed – Arcega-Whiteside will likely test as just an average athlete for the position. His top-end speed will be a question mark, as he is missing that top gear. However, his acceleration is good for his size. On top of that, he has proper shiftiness that allows him to move laterally. With broad shoulders and length, his strength profile projects well for the NFL.

Hands / Ball Skills – Arcega-Whiteside’s ball skills are some of the best in the class. He’s constantly extending away from his body, plucking the ball out of the air. He can reach away from body above the rim or right along the turf. He is consciously reaching back to the catch point, even in full sprint to get the ball out of the air as soon as possible. Drops can arise when he’s coming downhill towards the ball, but they are seemingly due to a concentration issue more than a physical limitation.

Body Control – His body control is elite in every way. Arcega-Whiteside has an innate ability to stick his foot in the ground and rise back towards the catch point. He’s consistently positioning his body where he can get full extension towards the ball. He’s a box-out specialist, as he always is in the right spot to shield the catch point from defensive backs. Does a great job extending at the last moment and using his length to snatch the ball. Will work through contact as well as any receiver in the class. On top of that, his horizontal body control is outstanding, as he can make catches right along the turf. His awareness of the boundary is outstanding, as he will rise and maintain position in the air that allows him to get his feet down in-bounds.

Ball Carrier – Arcega-Whiteside has a feel for space and players, as he can process a defense and avoid defenders. He has the ability to drop his pads and go forward through potential tacklers, bringing some pop. Decent explosiveness when getting vertical, but not the most elusive or slippery athlete. I would label his ability as a ball carrier as more “safe” than “dynamic.”

Stalk Blocking – Arcega-Whiteside is one of the better stalk blockers in the NFL Draft class. He will explode off the line of scrimmage, approach, collapse space and engage. The next step for him will be to continue running his feet upon engaging, as he can be content with using his length to stalemate defensive backs. He will work to cut-off safeties across the field, forcing cornerbacks to make tackles in space.

Versatility – Arcega-Whiteside took reps in the slot, but the majority of his plays came along the boundary. On top of that, his projection will come on the outside in the NFL. I like his ability in the intermediate and deep portions of the field, as well as his blocking acumen. He likely won’t offer much in terms of special teams at the next level.

BEST TRAIT – Contested Catch
WORST TRAIT – Speed
RED FLAGS – N/A

Arcega-Whiteside has created consistent passing windows in his college career with his refined technique and body positioning. Combined with his rebounding-like ability in contested catch situations, he is a jump-ball specialist. However, his game isn’t just limited to this trait. He offers enough in other areas to make me think his game will translate well to the next level. The 40-yard dash will likely show him limitations with top-end speed, but he will likely still be considered on Day 2 of the NFL Draft.

Given how Mayfield likes to throw it into tight windows and let his WR make contested plays, this guy made a living at Stanford "climbing the ladder" doing just that. A perfect fit at #49


I still want a thumper on the defense at #17

P.S. DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS

 

I haven't ruled that possibility out...You say defense wins championships, but all evidence points to the contrary in the modern NFL. Just look at the conference championship games. It was the NFL's 4 best offenses on display...

Obviously ya gotta play some defense as well, and if the Browns went that route I wouldn't be surprised in the least...We can speculate until draft day, and I'm sure we will....

 

FWIW, the NFL's two best defenses, Chicago and Baltimore, both lost at home in the playoffs this year in one and out situations....Ya gotta score in today's NFL.

The ol' "Defense wins championships" is simply in reality, just a tired old Bear Bryant line...It was absolutely true in the era, but hardly the case today...It did make me chuckle though Crex, when ya threw it out there in your P.S. with all caps...

 

You only like one? Why?...Don't get me wrong, I like Arcega-Whiteside as well. Was just watching film on him the other day....Good size. Good route runner. Great hands and body control. He just lacks explosiveness. I expect him to test very average at the Combine...I do think there will be plenty of available talent at WR at #49 if that's what Dorsey chose to do...

 

IMO, A dark horse name to remember concerning the Browns WR's next year is Derrick Willies...If the Browns don't add a big bodied WR to the mix this offseason, it could be an indication that they like the potential he was just starting to show before his unfortunate injury...

As far as the rookie crop goes. This is another guy climbing my list (speaking of big bodied WR prospects):

Kelvin Harmon, N.C. State - 6'3"/215

 

Just imagine Baker Mayfield on 3rd and goal from red zone with Njoku on one side and D.K. Metcalf on the other...Two tall, elite, explosive athletes, and two of the best high pointers of the football, playing with the NFL's most accurate passer. What is a defense to do?

D.K. in 2019! Let the legacy continue in Cleveland...




Seriously Irish, you don't see a potential #1 in this draft?

Just like Landry though, he'll have to pick a new number when he joins the Browns...

 

Quick reminder of the bloodlines (just for fun)....

 

There's potential all over the place. But when AJ Green came out..you knew it. There isn't a player that screams, you better get me at the top because I'm gonna tear it up. There are a group of about 7 guys with special skills and just as many questions. Then another 15 beyond them that I would love to see how Baker could develop them.

Don't take it the wrong way, I hope they draft a WR, but I am hard pressed to believe my mind will change between now and then that there won't be another player sitting there at #17 that I would rather have.


Let me throw out another scenario...

The Steelers want a first rounder for AB... We all know they aren't trading him inside the division and we also know Dorsey isn't handing a division rival a first round draft pick to play with for a 30 year old receiver....but....

OBJ has made his feelings known... What if.... The Giants would trade their "headache" for AB...

So, we trade #17 overall to them to obtain OBJ, in turn that gives them the ammo they need to go to the Steelers for Brown.

They can focus on getting their replacement QB with their own pick and everyone goes home happy.

 

Any scenario that ends with Baker Mayfield /O'dell Beckham tandem hooking up for the Cleveland Browns is one I welcome with open arms....I promise you this. If we have O'Dell in the fold heading into late April, I will have abandoned Metcalf on my wish list.

Even without O'Dell, there are undoubtedly plenty of scenarios that don't involve us taking WR early that I can get behind...

As it stands right now, D.K. is my guy...Always subject to change. We haven't even got to the Combine yet.

 

Throw in a second round pick too.

 

Dreamers are what makes the world go round Gid...keep it up


Truth is, doesn't matter what Odell wants, the Giants can't afford to trade him. They could try to figure out a restructure to get rid of some of that dead cap, but I don't know if they can get rid of enough this year to make a trade happen....If anything, the Giants would get another 1st or 2nd for Odell, not the Steelers for 30 year old Brown.

 

With $20M cap hit, can the Steelers afford to trade Brown? I doubt they get that done. They'll just have to smooth things out with Ben and Antonio....If there is gonna be a big trade involving an AFCN team, I think it'll be Joe Flacco getting traded. Probably to Denver or Jacksonville, but they have not been shy about their plans to move on in Baltimore without Flacco, and though I've always thought he was over-rated, I think there are enough desperate GM's out there (like Elway) that will be interested...

Assuming the Ravens do deal Flacco, are they back in the QB market two years in a row, or has RG3 done enough to take over full time back up duty?

If the Steelers do somehow part ways with Antonio, does that put them squarely in the mix for a first round WR on draft day?