NFL Draft Grades 2013: Cleveland Browns

The 2013 NFL Draft has come and gone, and now it’s time for some reflection. While some teams traded around to get who they want, others stood pat to see who would slide to them — and if there’s one thing to remember about this draft it’s players that slid around the rounds. But now that the draft is behind us, the all important grading phase has begun, so lets take a look at how the Cleveland Browns did in this year’s NFL Draft.

Draft Picks

• Barkevious Mingo, outsided linebacker, LSU — Round 1 (6)
  
• Leon McFadden, cornerback, San Diego State — Round 3 (68)
• Jamoris Slaughter, safety, Notre Dame — Round 6 (175)
• Armonty Bryant, defensive end, East Central (OK) — Round 7 (217)
• Garrett Gilkey, offensive tackle, Chadron St. — Round 7 (227)

Best Pick: Barkevious Mingo

Mingo is a very raw pass rusher who has tremendous upside and a very rare physical skill set. It is obvious that the Browns are dedicated to improving their pass rush with the addition of Paul Kruger in free agency and Mingo now in the draft. When you add those two players to the roster along with Jabaal Sheard, the Browns could be a scary opponent for teams moving forward.

Analysis: The Browns didn’t have too much to offer with their 2013 NFL Draft class, but they managed to address two major needs with their first two selections of the 2013 draft class. Mingo provides a player who could be potentially elite as a pass rushing specialist, while McFadden is a solid developmental defensive back. For what the Browns had to work with, they did an admirable job.

2013 Draft Grade: C