The Cleveland Browns will enter the NFL draft this week with their first pick coming in the second round at No. 49 overall. They have six picks in total and several areas that need attention. The Browns need another linebacker that can contribute, and they could also use help at safety and cornerback. On the offensive side of the ball, I could see them taking a tackle. It is a position that could be in question next year, if not this season, pending the performance of Greg Robinson.
Browns 2019 draft picks
Second round: No. 49
Third round: No. 80
Fourth round: No. 119
Trade for New York Jets LB Darron Lee
With the signing of high-priced linebacker C.J. Mosley and the arrival of new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, the New York Jets have not been shy about their intentions to move on from Lee, a former first-round pick. Lee was performing at a high level in 2018 prior to violating the league’s substance abuse policy, resulting in a four-game suspension. He finished the 2018 season with three interceptions and five tackles for loss before his suspension. In three years in the league, Lee has tallied 238 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss and four sacks.
There are rumors that the Browns are one of three teams interested in trading for Lee. The Jets are rumored to be looking for a third-round pick in return for the former Ohio State standout but might have to settle for a fifth- or sixth-round pick.
The Browns are in need of another linebacker, having failed to replace the recently released Jamie Collins with a starting-caliber player. Lee has tremendous speed (4.49-second 40-yard dash at the 2016 NFL combine) and covers well downfield. He could potentially be the Browns’ third starting linebacker while not costing them much at all.
Along with being obtainable for a Day 3 draft pick, Lee is in the fourth and final year of his rookie deal and is only scheduled to make a base salary of only about $1.8 million in 2019. He also carries with him a fifth-year team option as a result of being a first-round draft pick.
New Browns DC Steve Wilks is known for deploying two-linebacker looks while often using a safety up in the box instead of a third linebacker. The ability to add a talented third linebacker on an affordable salary, and one who would not require much draft capital, should be enticing for Dorsey and company.
At this point, it looks like if Lee does get traded, it could happen during the draft. It is certainly something to watch for this weekend. It would be shocking if Dorsey doesn’t address linebacker in some manner before training camp begins.
