Three biggest concerns for Cleveland Browns before the draft
The Browns, who finished 7-10 and last in the AFC North in 2022, are trying to make a splash once again this offseason. Cleveland has a roster that appears ready to compete with almost any team in the league, so what's holding the Browns back? Here are their three biggest concerns.
1. What are Cleveland's plans without a first- or second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft?
General manager Andrew Berry continues to do his best impression of trade-happy Les Snead, the Los Angeles Rams GM. After trading three first-round picks as part of the package for QB Deshaun Watson a year ago, he traded the team's second-round pick for WR Elijah Moore and a third-round pick.
Cleveland isn't scheduled to make its first selection until pick No. 74 in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The team still has eight picks in the draft but just two in the top 100.
There are still gems to be found deep in the draft. The Browns may need to take a best-player-available approach to find some.
2. Will QB Deshaun Watson return to his 2020 form?
Cleveland made a long-term commitment to Watson when it signed him to a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract last offseason. However, he looked far from his normal self upon his return from suspension.
Watson, whom the NFL suspended 11 games in 2022 for violation of its personal conduct policy, threw for 1,102 yards, seven touchdowns and five interceptions in his first six games as a Brown. He still has rust to kick off after not playing in 2021, but the team is hoping he can return to his 2020 form when he led the NFL in passing yards.
If he does, Cleveland will be a Super Bowl contender. If he does not, the Browns are in deep trouble after going all in on the 27-year-old.
3. Will a defender not named Myles Garrett make a significant impact in 2023?
The Browns didn't have a player not named Myles Garrett exceed three sacks in 2022. They have added a few new pieces to their defensive line through free agency, but will they make a difference?
Cleveland signed DE Obo Okoronkwo to a three-year, $19 million contract and DT Dalvin Tomlinson to a four-year, $57 million deal on the first day of free agency.
Okoronkwo posted a career-high five sacks in 2022; Tomlinson had 2.5 sacks last season. The team is hoping both players have an immediate impact alongside Garrett. Both signees are in their late 20s..
More must-reads: