Draft Nation’s Focus: AFC North

The new league year brings opportunity and refines team needs. Now that the first wave of the NFL free agency has come and gone, Draft Nation takes a deeper dive into the teams of the AFC North with an eye toward each of their needs. Here are a few prospects that may make sense for the Browns, Bengals, Ravens, and Steelers.

Cleveland Browns

Holding the second overall pick, the Browns are in a prime position to secure a top-tier talent. They re-signed edge rusher Myles Garrett to an historic contract but still are left with question marks at quarterback. There are rumors that cornerback Denzel Ward may also be on the trading block so if they do move on from him, they will need to fill a big hole at corner:

Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado): Some analysts suggest the Browns might select Hunter, a versatile player excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver. His dual-threat capability could address multiple team needs.

Shedeur Sanders (QB, Colorado): With uncertainties surrounding their quarterback position, the Browns might consider Sanders, known for his strong arm and leadership qualities. If the Titans pass on QB Cam Ward, the Browns would have their choice of signal caller at the top of the draft order.

Cincinnati Bengals

Selecting later in the first round, the Bengals are anticipated to focus on defensive enhancements. Last year’s porous defense needs help everywhere, so this may be a “best available” player kind of pick, especially as they are poised to lose their best defender, DE Trey Hendrickson to a trade request.

Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina): To strengthen their secondary, the Bengals might opt for Emmanwori, recognized for his athleticism and playmaking abilities. Emmanwori impressed at the NFL Combine with sub 4.4 speed.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are projected to target offensive playmakers but may also entertain trading down to fill the void left when they traded a 2nd round pick for Seattle’s wide receiver D.K. Metcalf.

Emeka Egbuka (WR, Ohio State): Egbuka's blend of athleticism and route-running could provide the Steelers with a 2nd dynamic receiving option, especially one to help them in the slot. 

Jahdae Barron (CB, Texas): Alternatively, bolstering the secondary with Barron could enhance the Steelers' defensive resilience. Rumors abound regarding the Steelers' interest in trading for Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander but with starting cornerback Donte Jackson signing elsewhere, Barron may be a plug-and-play option at the 21st spot in the first round.

Baltimore Ravens

With the 27th overall pick, the Ravens are expected to focus on defensive fortification. Last year, the defensive backfield was a problem for the Ravens, saver for the stellar play of safety Kyle Hamilton.

Darien Porter (CB, Iowa State): Addressing secondary needs, the Ravens might select Porter, a cornerback noted for his coverage skills and length. Porter performed well at the Combine and impressed scouts with his ball skills and size. Pairing Porter with cornerback Nate Wiggins might help Baltimore re-establish their defensive backfield.