I just recently started making my most recent mock draft, and two new names popped up as candidates for me with the Cleveland Browns’ top draft pick. Right now, I am fairly confident that they are not going to take A.J. Green with the sixth overall pick. If they are going to take Green, I think it will likely be in a trade down scenario.
By the time the Browns pick at six, I think you will see Marcell Dareus, one of the top defensive tackles already off the board, whether it’s to Carolina, Denver, Buffalo, or any of the top five teams.
That leaves the Browns with options in Nick Fairley, Da’Quan Bowers, and Robert Quinn to upgrade their defensive line and pass rush. With Bowers’ knee injuries and lack of explosion, I think they may look to pass on him with this pick and take either Fairley or possibly even Richard Quinn.
Now, Bowers remains an option for Cleveland, of course, as well as Green, this is just how I think it could go.
Robert Quinn recently showed excellent athleticism at the North Carolina pro day, and NFL Network’s Mike Mayock said he has “rare and elite skills” for the defensive end position. I personally believe Quinn is the top pass rushing end in the entire draft, and he would instantly upgrade the Cleveland defense.
Fairley is a bit rough around the edges, but is probably the best penetrating defensive tackle in the draft and should be an instant impact player in the NFL.
In my personal mock draft, I went with Fairley. I think he could be great value at six overall, and an excellent pick for the Browns.