2018 NFL Draft: Top Team Needs for the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns have had a busy offseason, but the real work approaches as the look to fill more team needs in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Things appear to be trending in the right direction for the Cleveland Browns. They were able to add some veterans at key positions, but still have plenty of holes to fill in the 2018 NFL Draft. Cleveland luckily has a ton of draft picks including 5 in the first two rounds.

This number of high draft picks will give the Browns a chance to add several starters with some making an immediate impact.

Below are the top team needs for the Cleveland Browns as we head into the 2018 NFL Draft:

1. Quarterback

Tyrod Taylor is going to provide the Browns with a strong veteran leader. He will move the offense and avoid turnovers. However, many feel that his upside is limited and isn’t a quarterback that can win you a championship.

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This is why the Browns are expected to use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback. There’s a lot of rumors floating around but it seems like it’s down to Wyoming’s Josh Allen and USC’s Sam Darnold.

2. Left Tackle

The retirement of Joe Thomas created a major hole along the Browns offensive line. They have some younger guys who have the potential to fill the opening, but they are question marks at this point.

Shon Coleman will get the first crack at the left tackle job with free agent signee, Chris Hubbard, the next in line.

3. Cornerback 

Cleveland’s cornerback ground is filled with average starters. Jamar Taylor, EJ Gaines, Brien Boddy-Calhoun and Terrance Mitchell have all had some sort of success in the NFL. The problem is none of them have No. 1 corner upside.

This year’s draft has doesn’t have anyone that would be great value at pick No. 4 overall. Ohio State’s Denzel Ward would be the closest fit. However, the 2nd round has plenty of cornerbacks with big time potential.

4. Defensive Tackle

Larry Ogunjobi had a terrific rookie season and should continue to get better. However, he needs a bigger bodied defensive tackle as a partner. This became a bigger need once the Browns traded away Danny Shelton.

5. Running Back

Duke Johnson has proven that he produce in the passing game and in spurts as a runner. However, he isn’t an every-down back. Carlos Hyde has the potential to be that type of player, but his injury history makes him unreliable.

The Browns could use a bigger bodied running back capable of moving the pile and working between the tackles.

Cleveland is a team that could be a fit for Penn State’s Saquon Barkley. He’s the top offensive playmaker in the draft and someone capable of being the focal point of a team’s offense.