The Cleveland Browns had a transformative offseason, completing a controversial blockbuster trade for Deshaun Watson on March 20th. They sent a first and fourth-round pick to the Houston Texans in exchange for Baker Mayfield's replacement, leaving Cleveland with seven total picks come late April.
Though they've already secured their quarterback of the present and future, Cleveland still needs to address other holes on the roster in order to be a more complete team on both sides of the ball. Hopefully, some rookie reinforcements will allow the rebuilt Browns to become a legitimate Super Bowl contender in 2022.
Let's take a look at our full Cleveland Browns 2022 NFL mock draft.
Browns 2022 NFL mock draft
Round 2 – 44th overall pick: Nik Bonitto (EDGE/LB)
Without a first-rounder, the Browns will be making their first selection with the No. 44 pick in the second round. They can opt to draft edge rusher Nik Bonitto out of Oklahoma to begin the proceedings. At the moment, Jadeveon Clowney has yet to be signed to a new contract by the Browns. Cleveland surely wants to retain his services, but the team also needs to increase its pass-rush depth regardless of his decision.
Bonitto had a solid three-year stay with the Sooners, finishing last season with 39 tackles and seven sacks in 11 games played. His speed, athleticism, and versatility would provide an immediate boost for the Browns, but he still needs to add more weight once he enters the pros.
Round 3 – 78th overall pick: John Metchie III (WR)
Another area of need for Cleveland is wide receiver, which could be addressed with the selection of John Metchie III from Alabama. He has undeniable talent but didn't get to display it during his early days in Tuscaloosa, playing behind the likes of Jerry Jeudy, Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith.
Metchie finally got the opportunity to unleash his true form as a junior, though, finishing last season with 96 catches for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns. Only 21 years old, he can surely develop into a valuable contributor with the Browns, especially once he starts playing with a dynamic quarterback like Watson.
Round 3 – 99th overall pick: Josh Paschal (DE)
Another potential reinforcement on the defensive side of the ball is Kentucky defense end Josh Paschal, who thrived defending the run in college. Paschal finished the 2021 season with 52 total tackles and five sacks, earning First Team All-SEC honors.
The Maryland native is a bit undersized at 6'3”, 278 pounds, but compensates with his leadership, versatility and overall activity. Don't be surprised if Myles Garrett takes yet another step forward with players like Bonitto and Paschal in tow, elevating Cleveland's defense overall.
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Round 4 – 118th overall pick: Cade Otton (TE)
The Browns opted to place the franchise tag on tight end David Njoku and eventually released Austin Hooper. They still have Harrison Bryant as their second-string tight end, but adding a young talent wouldn't hurt.
It would be shrewd for Cleveland to take a look at Cade Otton from Washington, who was most often asked to block on offense in the collegiate ranks. However, he also showed the ability to run routes and catch passes throughout his stint with the Huskies.
The 22-year-old still needs to be developed, but would serve as a quality asset in the fourth round.
Round 6 – 202nd overall pick: E.J. Perry (QB)
With Watson facing a possible suspension after being accused of sexual misconduct by 22 massage therapists, it's imperative the Browns have a serviceable backup behind him for the 2022 season. This need was further emphasized after veteran backup Nick Mullens signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.
The Browns could potentially select E.J. Perry from the Ivy League's Brown University, one of the most experienced signal-callers in this draft class. He's put on more muscle since his last college game and put forth solid showings at the NFL combine and collegiate pro day.
Not many Ivy League QBs have been drafted, but Perry's improved stock makes him a worthwhile candidate for Cleveland at No. 202.
Round 7 – 223rd overall pick: Christopher Hinton (DT)
Michigan defensive tackle Christopher Hinton is another player who could provide depth along Cleveland's defensive line next season. He has good hands, quick feet and solid overall strength, attributes that point to an upward long-term trajectory in the NFL.
The 20-year-old is still not a finished product, but showed during his stint with the Wolverines that he's capable of contributing after getting enough time to develop.
Round 7 – 246th overall pick: Josh Rivas (G)
Cleveland can conclude the draft by selecting guard Josh Rivas from Kansas State with the 246th pick. He was a prolific blocker for the Wildcats and has experience playing both tackle and guard.
Despite his capabilities, Rivals remains largely under the radar heading into the draft. The Browns would be bolstering their depth at guard and adding some valuable versatility in the trenches if they go with Rivas in the final round.
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