NFL Mock Draft 2013: Could Browns take defense to next level?

The Cleveland Browns didn't have a great season or anything like it, but they definitely exceeded expectations. With a new owner, general manager and coach and likely a new quarterback, all of the progress this past season could be for naught if not handled properly.

For more on the Cleveland Browns and their 2013 NFL Draft needs, visit Dawgs by Nature .

Still, they've got free agency coming up in March and then the 2013 NFL Draft in April and if they play both properly, the Browns could legitimately make the jump to being a team to fear next season. As teams generally do with a new coach, they'll likely focus primarily on the draft for rebuilding.

Matthew Fairburn of SB Nation released his latest mock draft on Monday, and he has the Browns going after cornerback Dee Milliner from Alabama.

The Cleveland Browns defense isn't far from being a dominant stop unit. The team could use a big time pass rusher, but the value with Dee Milliner is too much to pass on. A tandem of Milliner and Joe Haden would be scary for opposing offenses.

It's definitely a "luxury" pick, employing the best player available strategy, but many believe that is the best way to go. As the explanation notes, a pairing with Joe Haden would certainly be something scary for opposing offenses.

Haden has missed some time for various reasons in recent seasons, so bringing in Milliner would be good from that standpoint, as well. When Haden is on the field, he's recognized as one of the best corners in the NFL, and this would certainly add to Cleveland's defense.