Weekly FoS 7 Round Browns NFL Mock Draft

Aug 31, 2013; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorback offensive lineman Travis Swanson (64) walks off the field following a game against the Louisiana Ragin

#71 Travis Swanson

Call this the Alex Mack pick if you want. Swanson is a solid offensive lineman who can play guard or center. He has the strength and nasty streak to open holes in the run game while protecting the passer well. If Mack does get retained, for at least 2 years, Swanson starts next to him at guard and learns the game. If Mack leaves Swanson is pushed to start right away, unless a veteran is signed, which would be tough for any rookie at that position. Making line calls, calling out the “Mike” and communicating to the rest of the line all would rest on his shoulders.

The Browns again pass on a cornerback but fill another need off of our list. Adding 3 offensive players within the first 4 picks seems to fill the bigger needs on the team. While Buster Skrine, Leon McFadden and Chris Owens can fill the #2 corner spot if needed, the offensive line is in flux with the Mack situation. Planning for the future is what good teams do and this draft is not full of players who can step in right away and play at center, but also be a good to great guard right away. Swanson is one of those players, maybe the only one.