Browns: Tommy Togiai secures DT depth after being taken during the 2021 NFL Draft

The Browns have continued to secure their defense in the 2021 NFL Draft with DT Tommy Togiai.

The Cleveland Browns have continued to upgrade their defense during the 2021 NFL Draft. GM Andrew Berry made the Browns’ apparent last pick in the fourth round of the draft by selecting Ohio State defensive tackle Tommy Togiai.

Togiai made waves at Ohio State with his pass-rushing ability from the inside, as well as his killer measurables. The tackle from OSU posted 40 reps of 225 pounds, higher than any other Ohio State player.

His strength and pass-rushing ability had Togiai being talked about as a third-round pick, so the fact the Browns got him before the fourth-round ended is a strong sign that Berry is making picks based on potential and value. A wise stratedgy.

Togiai is the first defensive player of the second day but joins CB Greg Newsome III and LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who was taken in the first and second round respectively. They also join offensive players in WR Anthony Schwartz and OL James Hudson, who were taken in the third and fourth rounds.

Tommy Togiai could earn significant playing time right off the bat.

Tommy Togiai is going to have an opportunity to take some reps from guys. Malik Jackson and Andrew Billings are the expected starters but neither man is exactly a standout player. There’s also second-year player Jordan Elliot who was one of the worst rookies Cleveland had on the roster last year, and it’s a strong sign that he’s not expected to compete considering Berry just drafted an even younger, even stronger defensive tackle.

Togiai may be a pass-rushing down tackle to start but if he’s able to improve his run-stopping skills and becomes better at blowing up the point of attack, Togiai could become a starter in due time.