The Cleveland Browns are in the spotlight as the NFL draft approaches, holding the No. 6 and No. 24 picks in the first round. While these selections are crucial, the Browns' strategy extends beyond the first round, with nine total picks, including No. 39 in the second round. ESPN's Field Yates recently projected Brandon Cisse, a promising cornerback from South Carolina, as a potential pick for Cleveland at that spot.
Cleveland's secondary has been a focal point, especially with the need for a reliable partner alongside Denzel Ward. The current roster includes six cornerbacks: Ward, Tyson Campbell, Dom Jones, Tre Avery, D’Angelo Ross, and Myles Harden.
Campbell joined midseason from a trade with Jacksonville, which saw Greg Newsome II leave for the Jaguars. Campbell shone after the trade, while Newsome has since moved to the New York Giants.
Ward's veteran presence is invaluable, but his injury history, particularly with concussions, raises concerns about stability in the secondary. This makes the potential addition of Cisse intriguing for the Browns.
Cisse, standing at six feet, is known for his athleticism and proficiency in man-to-man coverage, with the versatility to adapt to various defensive schemes. His skills in run defense add to his appeal, though he still has room to grow at the NFL level.
Cisse's journey began with aspirations to follow in the footsteps of Jaycee Horn, a Carolina Panthers cornerback and fellow South Carolina alum. Despite not being recruited by his dream school, Cisse made his mark at North Carolina State before transferring to South Carolina, where he logged 65 tackles, 10 pass deflections, and two interceptions in his college career.
Historically, the Browns have favored drafting cornerbacks in the mid-to-late rounds under GM Andrew Berry. Recent picks include Myles Harden in the seventh round of 2024, Cameron Mitchell in the fifth round of 2023, and Martin Emerson in the third round of 2022. However, the team has occasionally made early-round selections, such as All-Pro Joe Haden in 2010 and Justin Gilbert in 2014.
Given the current need for depth and talent at cornerback, Cisse presents a compelling option for Cleveland. At just 20 years old, his potential is significant, and his dedication to the game is evident. The Browns have previously struck gold with second-round picks like linebacker Carson Schwesinger from UCLA, who quickly proved his worth despite initial skepticism.
With the Browns' secondary facing uncertainties and Ward's health a consideration, adding a player like Cisse could be a strategic move. His hard work and backing from NFL stars like Horn highlight the rare opportunity he represents. Cleveland would be wise to keep him in their draft plans.