The Cleveland Browns selected LSU linebacker Barkevious Mingo with the No. 6 overall pick in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Mingo is rated as the top outside linebacker and No. 6 overall player in this year's draft class by SB Nation's Dan Kadar.
2013 NFL Draft results: Browns select Barkevious Mingo with 6th pick
Cleveland has added one of the top pass-rushers in the draft. Will he have an instant impact?
Joe Robbins
Mingo was one of the most coveted players throughout the 2012 season. He recorded 38 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks as junior. He made the AP and Coaches’ All-SEC Second-Team as the end of the year.
With eight sacks as a sophomore, Mingo set the bar high for the following season. The numbers declined overall, but his pass rushing presence was always a factor for the Tigers defense. His ability to get into the backfield after lining up with his hand in the dirt or standing up makes him a versatile weapon at the next level.
Some analysts believe Mingo will make the change to outside linebacker and play opposite of Paul Kruger, who was picked up by the Browns in free agency. The Browns are making the transition to a 3-4 defense and Mingo could start on day one.
In a prospect profile on SB Nation, Mingo’s athleticism is well noted:
A standout athlete, Mingo will have no issues dropping back in coverage at the next level. He flips his hips well and has enough change of direction ability to stick with his man in open space. He wasn’t asked to do this often at LSU, but his skill set suggests he has the ability. Mingo also covers a ton of ground on the field due to his speed, which he flashes in bunches.
After redshirting his freshman year, Mingo won postseason honors after each of the following three seasons. Analysts placed him at the top of draft boards at the beginning of 2012. He possesses all the tools to succeed at the next level.
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