AFC North draft preview

The AFC North has been arguably the most competitive division in the NFL in recent years, including last year in which three of the four teams made the playoffs, and the team that didn’t had gone to the previous two AFC championship games.

Their draft picks this year could make or break playoff chances or make a run in the playoffs. Let’s take a look at how each team could attack this year’s draft.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens need some help on defense, particularly in their pass defense. They need some help in rushing the passer as well as in the secondary. Look for them to draft an edge rusher after the departure of Jadeveon Clowney. Cornerback is also a weakness that they will look to attack this draft.

Both positions are deep in talent in this year’s class giving the Ravens a big chance to capitalize and strengthen their chances at a Super Bowl run this year.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals will be looking to strengthen the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. They’ve improved on the offensive line, but one more from this draft could help solidify the protection for Joe Burrow. They will also likely be looking for a defensive tackle after the departure of DJ Reader.

The big question is whether or not they will go after a wide receiver. It’s been a tumultuous offseason for their receiver room with different contract situations and Tyler Boyd is still a free agent.

Will they look to a loaded receiver room to replace Boyd, or try to bring him back?

Cleveland Browns

For the third time in a row, the Browns don’t have a first-round pick after years of having multiple. They are also a wild card in this draft because they have made many free-agency moves in recent years.

One of their big needs is at defensive tackle, and the good news for Cleveland is there are very talented players at that position who will likely make it to the second day. Look for a possible running back pick as well as insurance with Nick Chubb coming off of injury.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Last year, the Steelers had three major needs going into the draft, and they nailed all three. This year, it’s the same story. They help on the offensive line, particularly at offensive tackle and center.

They also need a cornerback after releasing Patrick Peterson.

The question is whether or not they will fill their need at wide receiver through the draft. The Steelers have been rumored to be connected with two of the top receivers in the league in the lead-up to the draft.

Will they pull the trigger, or choose to draft one in a deep class?

Jacob Rudy is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him email jar7371@psu.edu.