Cleveland Browns Team Needs

With Free Agency all but over the Browns needs are starting to take shape. Much like last offseason the Browns were active making trades for Tyrod Taylor and Jarvis Landry while signing Carlos Hyde and Chris Hubbard. With the 2018 NFL Draft right around the corner here are the Cleveland Browns Team Needs.

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Cleveland Browns Team Needs

Defensive Tackle

The trio of Danny Shelton, Larry Ogunjobi and Trevon Coley are talented run defenders helping the Browns finish with the 7th best rushing defense in the NFL. The new regime however did not feel Shelton fit the scheme and was traded to the Patriots leaving a gaping hole in the middle of the defense.

 

Linebacker

Linebacker was supposed to be a strength but converted pass rusher Joe Schobert has been their best player while Jamie Collins has failed to live up to expectations. The Browns could use one of their several early picks on a linebacker that can play in coverage and improve their 19th rated pass defense.

 

Cornerback

A blitz happy defense can only be successful if the cornerbacks can hold up in coverage. Joe Haden was traded away and mid round pick Howard Wilson spent the entire year on injured reserve. TJ Carrie was brought in but with three 2nd round picks one of them could be used on a talented cornerback class.

 

Offensive Tackle

Losing Joe Thomas to retirement is a big hit for the Browns as he is one of the best tackles in NFL history. Signing Steelers super sub Chris Hubbard helps at right tackle but the need for a left tackle is huge. With an abundance of picks the Browns have options throughout the draft.

 

Quarterback

It wouldn’t be a Browns offseason if they didn’t have to address the quarterback position. Trading with Buffalo for Tyrod Taylor gives the Browns their new 2018 starter but Cleveland likely views him only as a bridge quarterback. Selecting a quarterback with one of their two first round picks is still expected.

 

Wide Receiver

Despite drafting six receivers in 2016 only Corey Coleman looks to have the potential to be a quality starter. Cleveland was able to acquire Jarvis Landry in a trade with Miami giving Tyrod Taylor a nice security blanket underneath. If Josh Gordon is resigned and can stay out of trouble the Browns should be set, but if he moves on adding a big receiver would fill out the group.

 

Running Back

Isaiah Crowell was hyped to have a strong year running behind a vastly improved offensive line but he struggled and is now with the Jets. Signing Carlos Hyde will help as he is an upgrade over Crowell but he won’t prevent the Browns from taking a running back in the draft.