2020 NFL Draft: Dark horse teams to address each position early

Offensive Line: Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns made a big splash in this free agency period, signing one of the top offensive linemen to a long-term deal to shore up their unit. They signed former 2016 first-round pick Jack Conklin to a three-year deal worth $42 million. While that addition will assuredly improve their offensive line, I don’t think they are done adding at the position.

Despite how bad the Browns offense looked last year, the line actually performed well from a statistical standpoint. They allowed the fourth-fewest quarterback hits and were middle of the pack in terms of sacks in 2019; they even allowed their runners to average 4.8 yards per carry, which was the fourth-best mark in the league. So why do I think they are going to add another lineman with a high pick?

New Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski heavily relies on the run game and play-action passing; he doesn’t spread the ball around too much and prefers to play a more physical style of offense. Offensive line and tight ends will be a featured point in his scheme, and he won’t take any chances with his unit.

The Browns may have more pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball, but more importantly, Cleveland wants their third-year quarterback to show progress; a clean pocket is the best way for Baker Mayfield to prove himself and improve the Browns’ 22nd ranked scoring offense.