Cleveland Browns 7-round 2021 NFL mock draft: Computer simulation

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 4, Pick 110

There are still plenty of avenues for the Cleveland Browns to explore for an EDGE opposite of Myles Garrett. Whether it be adding a free agent or picking someone, as they do in this 2021 NFL mock draft, the Browns need another player off the edge. There’s also a high possibility that the Browns do both to add depth as well, something that was needed this past season.

Getting an invite to the Senior Bowl, Jordan Smith has really started to make a name for himself despite only having two years under his belt. Over 21 games with UAB, Smith has been able to tally 23.5 tackles for loss along with 12.5 sacks. He also registered 89 tackles and an interception.

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 4, Pick 132

The Browns offensive line depth was tested this past season. Between injuries and the COVID list, the team had to get creative, even reaching a point where Baker Mayfield met guys blocking for him just hours before. Adding another player might be a good idea for that reason alone.

Having played center and guard at Georgia, Trey Hill is a versatile lineman that has blocked for a handful of well-known running backs out of Georgia. He should be able to transition well into a depth role in Cleveland, similar to what the team has done with Nick Harris.

Round 5, Pick 170

This is the first pick since the first round that really made me scratch my head. Sure, the Browns are in need of secondary help, but having already taken Melifonwu in the second round, this seems odd. Maybe the computer is thinking that Melifonwu would be a cornerback or that double-dipping at safety is what the Browns need in addition to Delpit, Ronnie Harrison and others.

Regardless, Darrick Forrest fits the bill of a traditional safety as a pure tackler rather than a ball hawk. During the 2019 season alone, Forrest logged 106 tackles for the Bearcats. He didn’t tally many interceptions with just six over his career and the same for passes defended at six as well. With such a different skill set, he would be a nice compliment to Melifonwu, I’m just not sure if there’s a need for that many safeties in the draft.

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 6, Pick 212

The Cleveland Browns offense uses multiple tight ends, so taking another in this 2021 NFL mock draft shouldn’t be a surprise. In some cases, the Browns had three different tight ends making an impact in a game while also all being on the field at the same time. With David Njoku perhaps moving on this offseason, the Browns could be in the market for a third tight end.

Standing at 6-foot-7, Cary Angeline was a reliable target when needed at N.C. State. Angeline had six touchdowns last season and 12 over his career. If he can become a steady set of hands, that would be a great sixth-round investment.

2021 NFL mock draft: Round 7, Pick 251

A late-round offensive lineman is almost always a smart pick. A right tackle at Fresno State, Syrus Tuitele can become a depth tackle for the Browns. There’s probably other picks that could be better here, but offensive line depth is a good way to go.

Overall, the computer did a decent job. I really only questioned two picks. As of now, I would prioritize edge rusher and linebacker a bit more than they did and maybe look for a true cornerback rather than just two defensive backs.