The Cleveland Browns acquired wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Dallas Cowboys. But will this move alter their plans for the 2022 NFL Draft?
The Cleveland Browns have had a need at wide receiver ever since the team mutually agreed to part ways with Odell Beckham Jr. midseason. Months later, they filled the void on their offense with some help from the Dallas Cowboys. In exchange for a fifth- and sixth-round draft picks, they acquired wide receiver Amari Cooper.
With Cooper now firmly atop the wide receiver depth chart entering the 2022 season, does this move alter Cleveland’s first-round plans at the upcoming NFL Draft?
Does Amari Cooper trade alter Browns NFL Draft plans?
The Browns hold the 13th-overall pick on Day 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft, putting them in prime position to take one of the top receiver prospects in the draft. Whether that is one of Ohio State’s wideouts in Garrett Wilson or Chris Olave, or USC’s 6-foot-4 receiver in Drake London.
The Athletic’s NFL Draft analyst Dane Brugler did say following the trade that the wide receiver should still be in play for Cleveland.
Taking another receiver certainly makes sense, especially if the team is to trade Jarvis Landry at some point in the offseason.
Even so, the Browns could opt to address another position of need with their first-rounder. One of the more pressing needs is at edge rusher, as Jadeveon Clowney is an unrestricted free agency and is unlikely to re-sign with the team, per The OBR. Florida State’s Jermaine Johnson II and Purdue’s George Karlaftis could be available when Cleveland is on the clock.
Cleveland could go edge rusher with the pick, or opt to take a defensive tackle, which is also a position that needs to be addressed. Georgia’s Jordan Davis would be available at that spot, and he is the top interior defensive linemen in the entire draft.
The Browns can go a variety of ways in the first round and that includes wide receiver, even after bringing in Cooper from Dallas.
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