Here’s my take on the Cleveland Browns’ 2024 Draft.
Last weekend, the Cleveland Browns made six selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, held in Detroit, Michigan. While many experts have analyzed the picks and offered their grades, I want to share my own thoughts on the Browns’ selections as we look at the draft in real-time.
Due to the 2022 Deshaun Watson trade, this was the final year the Browns were without a first-round pick, which naturally lowered expectations for this draft. However, over the past two years, Browns GM Andrew Berry has shown an ability to find first-round talent in the later rounds. In 2022, third-round pick CB Martin Emerson and in 2023, fourth-round pick T Dewand Jones both performed like first-rounders. So, did Berry manage to find another gem in the later rounds of the 2024 draft? Let’s dive into the first three picks.
With the 54th overall pick, the Browns selected DT Michael Hall Jr. from Ohio State. This was a solid pick that addressed a need for depth and youth along the defensive line. Hall can make an immediate impact in 2024, but this pick seems more geared toward the future, considering long-term needs. The Browns’ next pick came in the 3rd round at 21st overall, where they chose G Zak Zinter from the University of Michigan. Zinter could be considered a steal in this draft. After suffering a significant leg injury against Ohio State last November, Zinter missed key pre-draft events, but before the injury, he was a late first- or early second-round talent. He’s one of the top guards in the country, and landing him in the third round is a major win. In the 5th round, the Browns selected WR Jamari Thrash from Louisville. While Thrash is a developmental prospect, he may contribute in 2024, likely starting as a special teams player.
The final three picks of the Browns’ draft included Mississippi State LB Nathaniel Watson in the 6th round, South Dakota DB Myles Harden in the 7th round, and Cincinnati DE Jawon Briggs in the 7th round. These are all developmental players who may initially land on the practice squad this season.
Looking at how the Browns handled the 2024 draft, it’s clear how much the organization has grown. What Browns fans witnessed this past weekend mirrors what other successful AFC North teams have been doing for years. The Browns managed their draft with poise, trusting their evaluation process and making decisions based on solid assessments rather than panicking. Now, the next step is for fans to trust the front office. Although past seasons have left some doubts, the Browns have an opportunity to regain that trust through their on-field performance this fall.
Source: https://www.fansfirstsports.com/ffsn-nfl/my-take-on-the-cleveland-browns-2024-draft/