NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete first round after Week 7
By Dana Becker
RB. Penn State. player. Scouting Report. Saquon Barkley. 2. 53. Pick Analysis
While the Browns continue to sort out the quarterback spot between former Notre Dame star DeShone Kizer and ex-Stanford standout Kevin Hogan, the real pressing need for the offense remains at running back.
Insert Saquon Barkley right now, the Cleveland is a vastly-improved team on the very next series.
That’s the difference Barkley can make.
Cleveland is averaging just 3.8 yards per rush this year with Isaiah Crowell handling the bulk of the duties. Kizer has shown promise in the run game, with Duke Johnson providing big plays out of the backfield with his hands.
In comparison, Barkley is posting three yards more per carry for the Nittany Lions. And, he could do what both Crowell and Johnson are doing together as just one player, allowing for more roster space.
Barkley, a top candidate for the Heisman, currently has 649 yards rushing and six touchdowns on the ground, with another 29 catches, 395 yards and two scores in the passing game. He’s also a great kick returner, giving him more chances to get on the field from the start and provide a difference for Cleveland.