As the Cleveland Browns prepare for the draft, these are three things they should hope to happen.
Let’s be real, the Cleveland Browns are one of the biggest winners in this offseason. After Andrew Barry added names like John Johnson III, Anthony Walker, Troy Hill and Jadeveon Clowney, they are a top-three roster in the NFL.
No, not AFC: NFL.
Sitting at No. 26 in the first round, Cleveland can keep it simple and make the straight-forward pick. That, or they could make things interesting by either moving up-down. If Berry believes the team is one pick away from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender why not go for it all?
In reality, everything is about keeping up with the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs. However, it’s also about making sure teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers stay back.
Here’s the best outcome for the Browns when they’re on the clock.
Cleveland Browns NFL Draft Rumors: Best first-round outcomes
3. Steal a WR from the Ravens
People are always going to believe that the Browns at some point will trade Odell Beckham Jr. Let’s get this out of the way — it’s not happening in 2021, so stop asking.
What could happen though is Cleveland adding another weapon despite a four-receiver set that is already talented. Keep in mind that just after Cleveland picks, the Ravens will be on the clock looking to add a receiver to help elevate Lamar Jackson’s passing game.
Names like LSU’s Terrace Marshall Jr. and Minnesota’s Rashod Bateman are expected to be in play when selecting. Again, wide receiver technically isn’t a need for Cleveland, thinking ahead and making sure your opponent stays weak is always something to consider.
Whether or not the Browns believe that Landry and Beckham will return for 2022 is one thing. If not, they’ll have the immediate replacement in the building for a season to learn the offense before taking over. Meanwhile, the Ravens will still be looking for a true No. 1 target that can take off the top of the field.
Sounds like a win-win overall for Cleveland.