ESPN gives Browns two offensive weapons in new 3-round mock draft

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon wide receiver Troy Franklin (WO08) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Browns filled two team needs by nabbing Oregon wide receiver Troy Franklin and running back Trey Benson in the 2024 NFL draft in ESPN’s newest mock draft.

Mel Kiper and Field Yates teamed up to complete a three-round mock draft and chose to address the offensive side of the ball only for the Browns.

After selecting the Oregon receiver with the 54th overall pick, Yates provided this feedback:

“The Browns traded for Jerry Jeudy this offseason, but they still feel one wide receiver short on offense, especially since Amari Cooper is entering the final year of his deal. Franklin is a speedy big play waiting to happen.”

Selecting a wide receiver with the 54th overall pick is certainly on the table, and the Browns have shown interest in Franklin throughout the process. However, Franklin is a a vertical plane-only type of wide receiver who fits on the role of a deep threat down the field. With Cooper and Elijah Moore set for free agency, a receiver with a more well-rounded skillset would be preferable.

Here is what Kiper had to say on the third round selection of Benson for the Browns:

“Nick Chubb should be back from his serious knee injury in 2024, but the Browns could use a young back to push him. Benson is speedy and shifty, and I like his ability to hit a hole and find a lane. With just two picks in the first two rounds of the draft, Cleveland might have to target its needs.”

After the addition of D’Onta Foreman and Nyheim Hines to the running back room, it would be a bit of a surprise to see them add another one in the 2024 NFL draft. However, with all of Foreman, Hines, and star Nick Chubb set for free agency after this season, the Browns could add a young stud after the disappointing output from Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. a year ago.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: ESPN gives Browns two offensive weapons in new 3-round mock draft