The NFL draft could be about QB but Abdul Carter, offensive line help could supersede that need
The focus for every NFL team is the quarterback. That doesn’t mean it is the only position that matters but Cleveland Browns fans have seen that a great offensive line (like HOF-er Joe Thomas led) or a great defense or even great weapons isn’t enough if the quarterback is bad.
This upcoming NFL draft is not bereft of talent at the position but just two quarterbacks seem like sure-thing starters, even if they aren’t considered generational prospects. Cam Ward seems likely for the top overall pick while Shedeur Sanders’ destination could be impacted by his father.
Due to the importance of the position, most mock drafts will likely have the Browns selecting whichever quarterback is left with the second pick. Not NFL draft expert Dane Brugler (subscriber, $) who sees Cleveland upgrade their defense and create a dynamic duo:
2. Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State
It’s likely that Deshaun Watson has played his final snap for the Cleveland Browns, so a quarterback certainly will be on the table here. But I don’t expect Cleveland to force the pick if the right fit isn’t there. Carter playing opposite Myles Garrett would be a scary thought for opposing offenses.
Carter is an elite pass rusher with speed, bend and acceleration. Pairing him with Garrett would be almost unfair to offenses. Sanders went off the board with the sixth pick in Brugler’s mock draft.
In the second round, despite only two quarterbacks having been selected, Brugler goes back to the line of scrimmage for the Browns:
33. Cleveland Browns: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Ersery started three seasons with the Golden Gophers and is seen as a solid zone-blocking scheme option. While he may never be a top-tier left tackle, a return to zone scheme in Cleveland will be helpful to everyone and put him in a position to be successful.
Jalen Milroe was selected with the very next pick as the third quarterback off the board and the only one picked in the second round.
What do you think about this Browns mock draft? Does Carter and Ersery help fulfill Cleveland’s need to return to the NFL playoffs?