by This year’s combine saw some changes as an adjustment to the way the current game is being played. The NFL added 16 new position-specific drills and removed 10 others. In addition to changing drills, coverage for on-field drills moved to the late afternoon so NFL Network could show the action during prime time.
Despite mixed reviews for the changes made to the combine, viewers still witnessed some incredible athleticism on display. Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs showed off his blazing speed in the 40-yard dash with a 4.27, Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah demonstrated silky smooth footwork during on-field drills and Arizona State punter Michael Turk wowed everyone with 25 reps at 225 pounds on the bench press. These are only a few of the impressive performances.
For the Cleveland Browns, there are some key positions that the team needs to check off the list in the upcoming draft. Offensive tackle is the glaring opening but since the team has decided not to cough up the cash for linebacker Joe Schobert, help next to Mack Wilson likely is the second biggest need.
Christian Kirksey might be back but with his injury history as of late, a linebacker is still crucial. A quality safety comes in at third on my list. The good news is that there appears to be great talent at all three of those position groups.
The Browns honestly need to pick up two or even three offensive tackles this offseason to not only replace Chris Hubbard and Greg Robinson but rather drastically improve the line.
March 18 is the start of the NFL’s 2020 league year, but free agency opens up with the legal tampering period on March 16. Expect the Browns to test the waters and try to pull in a top offensive tackle free agent in a few weeks.
Jack Conklin was one of the better right tackles in the league in 2019. Conklin is a good pass protector but the strength of his game is as a run blocker. He was great at opening up lanes for Derrick Henry and was a major factor in why the Titans running game was so dominant last season. Conklin would be a great addition to the Browns O-line especially since the offense needs plenty of Nick Chubb carries.
Two of the other best options include Colts left tackle Anthony Castonzo and Eagles tackle Halapoulivaati Vaitai. Castonzo is 32 and has mentioned the possibility of retirement but if he continues to play, he is a quality left tackle. Vaitai is one of my personal favorite free agents because he can play left or right tackle. “Big V” has probably been the best backup tackle in the league over the last several years and has had plenty of opportunities due to injuries on the Eagles line. Since 2016, Vaitai has racked up 20 starts and was a crucial factor in the Eagles 2018 championship.
What happens in free agency will ultimately determine what will occur during the draft. Despite playing the waiting game at the moment, there are some clear targets the Browns should be considering.
