Browns Add Exciting Pass Catcher in Latest 7-Round Mock Draft
By Hunter Haas
The Cleveland Browns find themselves without a first-round pick thanks to the blockbuster Deshaun Watson trade last offseason. With limited resources to upgrade the roster, what is the best path for the franchise to take in the 2023 NFL Draft? The latest Browns mock draft has the answer!
Round 2, No. 42: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
The Browns could look to the defensive side of the ball with the No. 42 pick, but if a receiver like Josh Downs falls to them, it would be wise to scoop him up. Downs is electric after the catch and boasts some of the best route running in the class. His size likely keeps him in the slot, but the UNC standout brings a new dimension to the offense for Deshaun Watson and Co.
Round 3, No. 98: Byron Young, EDGE, Tennessee
The front seven is led by Myles Garrett but needs someone to take advantage of all the double teams thrown at Garrett. Byron Young is a pass-rushing prospect with an impressive arsenal of moves and a red-hot motor. Lined up opposite Garrett could result in some gaudy sack numbers for Young early in his career.
Round 4, No. 111: Ivan Pace Jr., LB, Cincinnati
The Browns lack a difference-maker at linebacker, but in-state product Ivan Pace Jr. would change that. The Cincinnati Bearcat star possesses a toughness that will lead to respect from the entire locker room. Pace lacks ideal size and testing numbers, but his versatility and mentality make him look much bigger than he actually is.
Round 4, Pick 126: Ji’Ayir Brown, SAF, Penn State
The Cleveland defense will likely need to replace failed free agent signing John Johnson this offseason. A true centerfielder at safety would go a long way for the Browns, and Ji’Ayir Brown is the perfect option in the 2023 NFL Draft. Brown showcases some of the best ball skills in the class and has played box/deep safety during his college career. His versatility makes the Penn State safety a worthy addition to the secondary in this mock draft.
Round 5, No. 142: Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina
The Browns were abysmal against the run in 2022 — plain and simple. The defensive line needs more youth, making way for Zacch Pickens to come in and compete for starter reps immediately. Pickens is a traitsy defensive tackle who uses his athleticism to impact the game as a pass rusher and run stuffer. He is exactly what the doctor ordered for new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
Round 5, No. 144: McClendon Curtis, OL, UT-Chattanooga
Cole Strange paved the way for McClendon Curtis after going on day one of the 2022 NFL Draft. Many folks who tuned into Strange’s college tape were impressed by Curtis’ relentless work ethic and tendency to play through the whistle. He requires some NFL coaching when it comes to technique, but the potential is there for Curtis to start at guard in short order.
Round 6, No. 190: Davis Allen, TE, Clemson
The Browns must find a way to get Deshaun Watson back to his former self. After adding Josh Downs and McClendon Curtis, Cleveland adds another player to make life easier for the team’s quarterback.
Clemson’s Davis Allen is best as a receiver, where he can use his elite hands and contested catch trait to haul in passes downfield. He lacks top-end athleticism and has work to do as a blocker, but moves the chains and serves as a red-zone threat.
Round 7, No. 231: Lew Nichols III, RB, Central Michigan
The Browns are losing Kareem Hunt to free agency this offseason and will need some fresh legs behind Nick Chubb. Lew Nichols is a year removed from an 1800-yard, 16-touchdown campaign for Central Michigan. He dealt with injuries in 2022, but he is worth the shot at the end of the mock draft to see if he can regain his previous form.