Browns love for Cleveland could force 6 OTs in round 1 of 2020 NFL Draft
By Ravi Konjeti
The Browns interest in OT Ezra Cleveland can swing how many tackles are taken in the first round and may force the Titans hand into filling the hole at right tackle early.
The 2020 NFL Draft is creating more rumors than its predecessors and one rumor floating around is surrounding the mercurial Cleveland Browns and their increased interest in OT Ezra Cleveland.
The left tackle out of Boise State was a top-level talent in the Mountain West Conference for the Broncos and would pair nicely with the Browns new right tackle Jack Conklin, whom the team signed away from the Titans at the start of free agency.
If the Browns maneuver their way to landing Cleveland, then there is a very real possibility that the 2020 NFL draft sees six offensive tackles taken in the first round. Right now, Cleveland is marked as the seventh tackle on PFF’s big board, marking him as a second rounder.
Alabama’s Jedrick Wills Jr, Iowa’s Tristan Wirfs, and Georgia’s Andrew Thomas are all expected to be off the board in the top 15 picks while Houston’s Josh Jones and Louisville’s Mekhi Becton are projected late first rounders. Along with the Titans, the Seahawks, Steelers, and Packers are all in need of offensive tackles and may choose to use their premium first round pick on a tackle.
More from Titan Sized
- Tennessee Titans suspiciously quiet about major draft need
- Tennessee Titans agree to new deal with star Jeffery Simmons
- Caesars Promo Code Expires Soon – Claim $1,250 Today
- 3 needs that are being overblown by Tennessee Titans fans
- Tennessee Titans have potential dilemmas in 2023 NFL Draft
The Browns, who currently hold the 10th and 41st picks, could opt to drop down in the draft to take Cleveland or take another tackle at their current first round slot. If they stay put, they might be taking the third tackle in the top 10, leaving the other teams scrambling to get the last few remaining tackles on the board.
Titans have been bold in their movement in the NFL draft since Jon Robinson has taken the helm. I would not be surprised if the Titans traded up to take a tackle or move back into the second round to increase their draft capital.
It will all depend on how many tackles are in play for the Titans. The Titans will need to keep an eye on the Browns movement throughout this process as they might be the swing team here. After the Browns snagged Conklin in free agency, the team cannot afford to let their AFC North rivals get another crucial piece to their talented roster.