The Browns currently have eight draft picks for the 2023 NFL draft. Picks number 74, 98, 111, 126, 140, 142, 190 & 229. With the success of the 2023 free agency period, the team could roll out a 53-man roster right now without adding any more players. But they will draft players for depth. So what’s going to happen?
Trade Up Or Down. Browns GM Andrew Berry rarely trades up. If a player the team really covets falls late into the second round, he might pull the trigger. The more likely scenario is trading down to accumulate more picks in the 2024 & 2025 draft. The Browns will still be in good shape in 2024 with the salary cap, however in 2025 there might be some problems due to current contracts. Berry always trades current picks for future picks.
Current Roster. Looking at the contacts the current free agents have signed, if a player has guaranteed money, the Browns are anticipating the player is making the roster. An example is quarterback Josh Dobbs. He signed to a two-year, $2 million contract fully guaranteed. Dobbs will be on the roster this year and the next. Defensive tackle Maurice Hurst has no guarantees, he’s fighting for a roster spot.
Team Visits. It’s being reported which draftable payers are taking visits to the team facility in Berea. This isn’t a sign these players will be drafted. Andrew Berry likes to use these visits to show potential undrafted rookie free agents the Browns are interested in them if they go undrafted. Cornerback A.J. Green is a perfect example. He went undrafted and signed with the with the Browns shortly after the draft.
Tonight, I’ll be part of podcast on the Fanatical Elfz Network, http://@ElfzNetwork with my good friend John Suchan, http://@JohnSuchan to discuss the Browns draft strategy. Also, my first mock draft will be published soon on Cleveland Sports Talk, http://@CLEsportsTalk. Tune in and look for my article. Stay safe and Go Browns.