A mock draft from USA Today has the Cleveland Browns making a fairly obvious pick, Georgia offensive tackle Andrew Thomas.
A brand new mock draft from USA Today has the Cleveland Browns doing something completely expected. Drafting an offensive tackle. The tackle in question? Georgia’s Andrew Thomas. Here is the reasoning from mock draft creator Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz.
Emphasizing stability over flash, Cleveland’s new regime has made it clear it wants to employ a steady approach toward building its roster and supporting Baker Mayfield. That might lead them to Thomas, an experienced blocker who has already handled an assortment of pro-level pass rushers.
There is no real fault in the logic here. Cleveland needs stability and drafting a position like offensive tackle could help them build for the future. Andrew Thomas has been a popular pick for the Browns in multiple mock drafts and this is just the latest to join that group.
Andrew Thomas is the second tackle to be selected in this mock draft. The only other tackle going ahead of Thomas is Jedrick Wills Jr. to the Arizona Cardinals two picks earlier. Only one tackle going ahead of Thomas gives the Browns plenty of options to consider at 10th overall.
Three other tackles go after Thomas in the 1st round according to this mock. Mekhi Becton goes one pick later to the New York Jets as they are looking for someone to keep Sam Darnold upright. Tampa is looking for some help protect Tom Brady as they select Tristan Wirfs at 14. The final tackle to go in Round 1 is Josh Jones to the Dolphins four picks later.
Will the Cleveland Browns actually draft Andrew Thomas? Maybe, maybe not. Matt Miller reported that trading down and selecting Javon Kinlaw is a possibility for Cleveland. There is also the slight possibility that they select Isaiah Simmons if he is still on the board. Drafting an offensive tackle seems obvious, but the Browns can really consider all options available to them when it is time for the NFL Draft.
