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3 NFL Draft prospects the Browns should avoid

By Rucker Haringey

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 18: Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on October 18, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 18: Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on October 18, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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Cleveland Browns draft rumors, Tyreke Smith
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JANUARY 01: Justin Hilliard #47, Tyreke Smith #11 and Antwuan Jackson #52 of the Ohio State Buckeyes react after a big hit against the Clemson Tigers in the third quarter during the College Football Playoff semifinal game at the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 01, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

2. Tyreke Smith

Myles Garrett is a beast at one defensive end spot for the Browns, but the team is still searching for a quality option to deploy on the other side of their defensive line. Adrian Clayborn should return in 2021 at his modest cap number, that his presence shouldn’t preclude Cleveland from searching for an upgrade in the draft.

Picking the right edge rusher is the issue the Browns must focus on. Smith is a player getting some first round buzz at the moment, but his tape doesn’t back that up. A big performance against Alabama in the National Title game could easily send his stock soaring well above its rightful spot in Round 1.

It’s easy to understand why some scouts will fall in love with Smith. He very much looks the part of an elite edge rusher. If his qualifications were only based on his speed and athleticism he could go in the top-10 of this year’s draft. Unfortunately, his lack of motor and mediocre technique weigh down his performance.

The good news for Cleveland is that there project to be superior edge rushers available when they go on the block. Someone like Greg Rousseau could give the team great value at No. 23. It’s crucial for the Browns to avoid gambling on the wrong defensive end in Round 1.

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