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Cleveland Browns focus on defense in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft

By Brandon Croce

Dec 3, 2022; Arlington, TX, USA; Kansas State Wildcats defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (91) in action during the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Kansas State Wildcats at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2022; Arlington, TX, USA; Kansas State Wildcats defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah (91) in action during the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Kansas State Wildcats at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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2023 NFL Mock Draft
Mazi Smith (Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports) /

96. player. 811. . Defensive Tackle. Wolverines . Mazi Smith

One of the areas that the Browns’ defense struggled last year was against the run. They allowed on average 135 rushing yards per game, which was the eighth-highest total in the league.

Mazi Smith, who was the starting defensive tackle for the Michigan Wolverines, would be a great fit for the middle of this defensive line and should significantly improve this part of their defense.

He is a big defensive tackle at 6’3″ and 326 pounds that could clog running lanes and keep offensive linemen from getting to the second level to block linebackers. He played in 28 games over the past two seasons and had 85 total tackles and 5 tackles for a loss.

One of the Browns’ starting defensive tackles from last season, Taven Bryan is set to be a free agent and they might be prepared to make significant changes at this position. By adding Mazi Smith in this 2023 NFL mock draft, they get Bryan’s replacement and probably improve the position.

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