The Dynamic Linebacking Duo Is Missing A Piece
The Cleveland Browns have some needs as the NFL draft is quickly approaching later this week, very few needs are bigger than upgrading the linebacking unit.
Linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is coming off his third NFL season, all with the Browns including a Pro Bowl year last season. With Sione Takitaki now on the Patriots and Anthony Walker Jr. on the Dolphins, the team could use another stud.
The Browns signed veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks, who has played for three teams in nine years. He could provide some experience and playmaking for the group. However, the Browns know they need another high-flying young player to add to their linebacking unit.
Here are three players who could provide a spark to the linebacking unit.
Three Draft Candidates to Bolster Browns Linebacking Unit
Trevin Wallace Flying in the Linebacking Unit
Trevin Wallace spent three years at Kentucky and did not disappoint. He played right away, making an impact as a true freshman. His 2023 campaign was by far his best to date, and he showcased his versatility.
Wallace finished his junior season with 80 total tackles, five and a half sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception. The 6’2, 241-pounder could fill the Mike position for the Browns due to his skill set.
He is great at stopping the run quickly but also moves sideline-to-sideline very well. Wallace possesses great size and athleticism for that size. With a great change of direction and feel for the game, Wallace may be worth an earlier pick for Cleveland.
Full Trevin Wallace Scouting Report
Edgerrin Cooper
Edgerrin Cooper spent four seasons at Texas A&M after redshirting his first season. In 2021, he had the first of three straight consistent seasons of great play in a tough conference.
Standing at 6’3 230-pounds, Cooper had 58 or more tackles in three straight seasons including 83 tackles last season. He also had eight of his eight and a half college sacks last season, and added two forced fumbles. Cooper was named a first-team AP All-American.
His unique blend of physical strength and top-end speed go well with his knack for finding the football. Cooper is also a physical tackler and can drop into coverage if needed. He would fit right into what the Browns need for the linebacking unit.
Full Edgerrin Cooper Scouting Report
Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. didn’t see much time during his first season at Clemson but put together two great seasons over the past two years. His sophomore and junior campaigns featured nearly identical numbers.
The 6’0 230-pound linebacker had 89 and 87 total tackles in 2022 and 2023. He also had five passes defended and two interceptions each season. Not to mention his 12 sacks and three forced fumbles combined. He was a second-team AP All-American selection.
Trotter Jr. has a knack for chasing down plays and this is reflected in his plethora of stats. He possesses great strength and body control when running from sideline to sideline. He is able to diagnose plays quickly and has a good short burst.
Full Jeremiah Trotter, Jr. Scouting Report
There are a variety of options the Browns could take as soon as their second-round pick. With a young linebacker becoming a desperate need, the linebacking unit could be addressed on day two of the draft.
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