With the NFL draft slowly coming around the corner, the Cleveland Browns still have questions to be answered. With limited options on their defensive line and concerns still at wide receiver, Andrew Berry and company could be pigeoned holed into adding to those positions early in the draft.
Due to the Deshaun Watson trade, “early” for the Browns isn’t that early. Following in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Rams, and other teams, Cleveland is without a first-round pick in the next three drafts.
The dreams of a top-end wide receiver to pair with Amari Cooper have gone out the door, it seems. It also could be difficult to find a top-flight edge rusher to pair with Myles Garrett in the second round.
While Berry may still address those positions with his top picks, the tight end spot also may need attention. With Austin Hooper released and David Njoku currently waiting for a long-term deal while franchise tagged, only Harrison Bryant is set to make an impact beyond 2022. The Browns have, reportedly, already brought in one tight end for a visit before the draft.
Another potential target just got cleared from his ankle surgery:
University of Washington TE Cade Otton received full clearance recently from the doctor who performed his ankle surgery in November, source said. Otton has had in-person and/or virtual visits with 19 NFL teams over the past 2 weeks. One of few true “Y” tight ends in this draft.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 11, 2022
As noted in the tweet, Cade Otton may be one of the only true traditional inline tight ends in this draft. As the college and NFL games trend toward the “F” tight ends who split out more like big receivers, Otton fills the role as a versatile blocker and receiver.
If four seasons in Washington, Otton combined for over 1,000 yards receiving and nine touchdowns.
Kevin Stefanski may move toward having fewer tight ends on the field but long-term team building will still require more players at the position. Otton is expected to be a late day two or early day three selection depending on his health.
With limited picks and a win-now plan, it may be tough for Berry to invest a pick into a tight end with one of their first three. Otton’s versatility would be a welcomed addition but, perhaps, not at the expense of drafting another position.