Top IDP Rookies of the 2nd Round

Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns

The Browns should be about adding talent at every position as much as they can, and the selection of Carson Schwesinger is one in a much-needed area. Starter Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has been dealing with some neck injuries, so this is at least protection in case that continues. Even with a healthy JOK, I love the fit for Schwesinger with the Browns. He’s a linebacker with good size who can do anything needed at the position. He can play inside as a run stopper or rush the passer as an off-ball linebacker. When watching his film, range, instincts, and tackling all stand out. Cleveland got one of the top linebackers in this class, who will quickly make an impact for a team that needs impact players.

Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Dallas Cowboys

Outside of superstar Micah Parsons, it's been no secret about the Cowboys' lack of a pass rush. They have tried filling the role opposite of Parsons with both veterans and rookies, with little success. That may have finally gotten it right this year! They brought in veteran Donte Fowler for immediate help but also drafted one of the nation's best pass rushers in college last season, Donovan Ezeiruaku. He ranked 4th in TFLs (21) and 2nd in sacks (16½) last season for Boston College, and had some first-round buzz pre-draft. Ezeiruaku has long arms and very good technique. He’ll likely sit, learn, with a small role behind Parsons & Fowler for a year, and then it will be his time. Great pick by Dallas!

Mike Green, EDGE, Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens addressed a big need here, as starter Kyle Van Noy, who has produced solid numbers for them, isn’t getting any younger. Adding a shot of youth, Mike Green, to play opposite Odafe Oweh, was important. Pre-draft, Green was trending as a first-round talent, but some off-field issues (sexual assault accusation) caused his stock to fall. He had elite numbers last season (led the nation in sacks with 17 and was 2nd in TFLs with 23), albeit at Marshall, has elite length and bend. Great value here for the Ravens, and Green has the tools that they can mold him into another top pass rusher. Off-field issues aside, the Ravens hit another home run.

Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Kansas City Chiefs

They knew they at some point, they had to find an eventual replacement for star defensive lineman Chris Jones. The answer to that question was Omarr Norman-Lott, and they nailed it with that selection. Norman-Lott is one of the few defensive linemen in this class who can provide a consistent pass rush from the interior. He’s quick with a good pass-rush toolbox, strength and power, and likes to push the whistle. Reminds you an awful lot of Jones like qualities. Has experience and proven production that translates well to the NFL. A terrific pick by the Chiefs to stay ahead of a future need.

Andrew Mukuba, SAF, Philadelphia Eagles

With Reed Blankenship as the starter at free safety, many view this as a depth pick, but Andrew Mukuba may just be too talented to keep off the field. A true ballhawk with a ton of range, who fires down in run support without hesitation. An experienced and instinctive playmaker who can play in different defensive schemes. Mukuba has burner speed and can cover just about anyone. When you have a player this talented, depth be damned, you find a spot on the field for him. The Eagles just continue to make picks at the end of the rainbow.

All stats provided by Pro Football Reference

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