Browns, Giants exchange draft picks in Vernon-for-Zeitler deal

The Cleveland Browns and New York Giants swapped mid-round picks as part of the Olivier Vernon-for-Kevin Zeitler trade.

The Cleveland Browns and New York Giants agreed to a trade Friday that will send Giants pass-rusher Olivier Vernon and a fourth-round pick to the Browns for guard Kevin Zeitler and a fifth-round pick, according to multiple reports.

The Giants need for help along the offensive line was as obvious as any in the NFL and with Vernon not being an ideal fit for their defense, this trade feels like a big win for New York.

It could also have a ripple effect on the 2019 NFL draft.

The Giants hold the sixth overall pick and if they don’t use it on a quarterback (which unless Kyler Murray slips, I wouldn’t bet on it), the next logical position group for them to target is offensive line. The highest-rated tackles in this class are Jawaan Taylor (Florida) and Jonah Williams (Alabama), both of which might still be on the board when New York selects.

Adding Zeitler and one of the top two rookie tackles would represent a huge step in the right direction for the Giants in their effort to revamp the protection in front of Eli Manning.

For the Browns, they grab a better pick — up one round from the fifth to the fourth — and a pass-rusher with upside. Vernon never quite worked out for the Giants and at this point in his career is somewhat overrated, but he’s a safe bet for seven sacks if he can stay healthy.

This trade is the first of likely several to come once the new league year begins on March 13.