Alex Wright: What the Browns are getting in their 3rd round DE
The Cleveland Browns did not have a first-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft and despite many fans clamoring for them to trade back in to snag a star, Cleveland made the decision to create no chaos on the first day.
On the second day, Browns fans grew even angrier, because the franchise elected to trade back from their first draft selection, but once they did make a selection they made some noise.
We already covered what the Browns are getting in Martin Emerson and now we move on to who their next selection was. With the 78th selection in the NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected Alex Wright, defensive end from UAB.
Now let’s see what he can do.
Strengths
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Name: Alex Wright
Position: Defensive End
School: UAB
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 271 pounds
Alex Wright is a big dude at 6’5″ and 271 pounds and his frame indicates that he could even possibly gain another 15 pounds of muscle.
The size isn’t just for show as he has the ideal length and explosive first punch to keep linemen at bay on a consistent basis. Wright also doesn’t get lost in traffic and is always in pursuit of the ball, showing the ability to work off blocks and keep his assignment.
This is Alex Wright vs. and All-Conference Power 5 offensive tackle. Imagine how good he’ll be when he refines his technique. The #Browns made a home run selection with Wright. Unlimited potential. Garrett/Wright should eventually be a nasty combo at DE.
pic.twitter.com/KYCkoujnHz— Matt Wilson (@CoachWilson66) May 3, 2022
Weaknesses
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Alex Wright played more effectively standing up than with his hand in the dirt, but that’s not necessarily a negative trait. Wright does have a thin lower body, which isn’t ideal for an edge tasked with anchoring against the run. His initial punch is explosive, but he isn’t beating linemen off the ball with his first step as consistently as you would like to see.
#NFL #NFLDraft2022 #Browns
Round 3 (Pick 78)
Alex Wright, DE, UABpic.twitter.com/HNfE3a4opT— ⚫🟡⚫🟡 (@SteeIRNation87) May 4, 2022
Potential Fit
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
I was not the biggest fan of this selection as I typically look for more production in non-power five prospects, but I can see the upside as Alex Wright looks like a Madden create-a-player with rare length, but he’s inconsistent and has as much of a low floor as he does a high ceiling.
Wright is a developmental prospect that could eventually be a starter as a 4-3 strongside defensive end or could gain weight and play 3-tech. Worst-case scenario should see time in the rotation and play meaningful minutes eventually.
#Browns finally fill a hole and select Edge Alex Wright from UAB. Big 6’5 270 lb frame w/ good pursuit and a high motor.
— Mac (@tha_buffalo) April 30, 2022
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