Cleveland Browns: 7-Round 2019 NFL mock draft, Vol. 7
By Peter Smith
Round 6: Cody Barton, LB, Utah – 6-2.5, 237 pounds
- 68 solo tackles (12.4 percent) in 2018.
Age: 22 (Born Nov. 13, 1996)
40-Yard Dash: 4.64s
Broad Jump: 116″
Vertical Jump: 32.5″
3-cone: 6.9s
Shuttle: 4.03s
Bench: 30 reps
The Browns need linebacker help for the future mostly, but they do have some needs presently. Largely this comes down to their SAM backer position and while Genard Avery can play it, that might not be the best use of his ability. Cody Barton could play that position, even if the Browns don’t plan to use it often, while giving the defense an elite athlete that can be more down the road.
If Barton does nothing else but play the SAM and play special teams, it’s a good pick. He could earn a larger role later. Utah used him at their “Mac” position, which had him play SAM at times to help at the point of attack and play the run but also had him lined up in space to cover slot receivers.
He’s inconsistent when it comes to reads and at times can attack holes prematurely. When Barton is right, he’s really impressive and shows the ability to physically dominate with speed and strength. He also flashes an impressive motor and sticks with plays to the bitter end, occasionally making some just by not giving up.
Barton has a lot of work to do if he’s going to play coverage on a regular basis, but he can blitz and will occasionally beat opponents to the spot. He’s been a late bloomer in terms of being a regular starter for the Utes but he represents significant potential for the Browns.
At 237 pounds, he’s got similar agility to the defensive backs the Browns took in this draft and possesses remarkable strength. Maybe he never becomes more than a role player, but the Browns need a role player and the chance for more is more than worth the investment.