The latest mock draft from Yahoo Sports and analyst Eric Edholm is fresh off the presses. Edholm extended out to two full rounds to give a deeper look at the top prospects and where the 32 NFL teams might be looking.
Yahoo’s projections for the Cleveland Browns probably sound familiar to those following along with the ever-flowing mock draft scenarios.
The first-rounder is not a new name, though slotting him at No. 10 instead of the second round is a recent change. Such is the perceived rise of Louisville offensive tackle Mekhi Becton.
With the new analytics-driven front office running the ship, it’s tough to know exactly which direction the Browns will go. But I do think offensive line help is a must at multiple spots, and new OL coach Bill Callahan loves players who can engage power. So while I could easily see Iowa’s Tristan Wirfs here, I also couldn’t resist pairing up the powerful, nasty and surprisingly agile (for a 350-pounder) Becton.
In Edholm’s projection, Beckton is the second OT off the board, following Alabama’s Jedrick Wills at No. 4 to the New York Giants.
For the second round, Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr. makes another appearance. He’s been a popular second-round pick ever since the word of Joe Woods becoming the Browns new defensive coordinator started to make the rounds. Woods coached Winfield’s father, an All-Pro cornerback for the Vikings.
Given how badly the Browns need help at safety, it’s an easy projection and one the Browns brass would be wise to consider in April.
