2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after national championship

Originally, I had the Browns taking a local prospect in Shaun Wade from Ohio State, but the way the Buckeye cornerback played in the national title game against DeVonta Smith was enough for me to knock him out of the first round altogether. Sure, the Browns could use a cornerback, but they could also afford to take a lineman.

Cleveland probably needs the most help on the defensive side of the ball, but Smith wouldn’t cause any complaints at this point in the first round to hold down the interior of the offensive line.

With his 6-6, 325-pound frame, you’d think that Smith would be the ideal offensive tackle at the collegiate level, but he was more effective as a guard. That’s likely where he’ll be playing at the next level.

The Browns need to be making sure they protect Baker Mayfield who has been improving this season, leading the franchise to the playoffs. Smith would be a smart pick here, especially with no sure-fire first-round defensive backs left on the board.

It’s too bad because Wade would have been a fan favorite.