5 Key Cleveland Browns Draft Predictions for 2022: Baker Trade, QB Watch and More

5 Key Cleveland Browns Draft Predictions for 2022: Baker Trade, QB Watch and More

By Michael Harrison

December 18, 2024 at 06:37 PM

As the 2022 NFL Draft approaches, here are five key predictions for the Cleveland Browns:

  1. Day 3 Secondary and Running Back Additions While defensive line and wide receiver are primary needs, expect GM Andrew Berry to draft with future roster gaps in mind. With Greedy Williams, Troy Hill, and Kareem Hunt becoming free agents next year, the Browns will likely select defensive back and running back depth on Day 3.

  2. Tight End Selection Coming With only David Njoku and Harrison Bryant as NFL-caliber tight ends on the roster after releasing Austin Hooper, the Browns need depth at this position. Despite some prospects being outside Berry's preferred age range, Kevin Stefanski's heavy tight end usage makes this pick likely.

  3. Baker Mayfield Trade Expected The Browns will likely trade Mayfield to either the Seahawks or Panthers for a mid-round pick, eating some of his $18 million guaranteed salary in the process. Watch for a potential surprise team to emerge in trade talks.

  4. Movement from Pick 44 Berry's history suggests the Browns won't stay at pick 44. They could trade up for sliding targets like George Pickens, George Karlaftis, or Jahan Dotson. Alternatively, they might trade back to recoup picks from the Deshaun Watson deal if preferred prospects are gone.

  5. Multiple First-Round QBs Despite being considered a weak quarterback class, expect more than two QBs taken in Round 1. Malik Willis and Kenny Pickett are likely first-round locks, with Sam Howell, Desmond Ridder, or Matt Corral potentially joining them due to multiple QB-needy teams.

Key QB-needy teams include Atlanta, Carolina, Seattle, Pittsburgh, and Detroit, with Tampa Bay potentially joining that list after 2022 when Tom Brady becomes a free agent.

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