Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer posted a mailbag this morning with several interesting tidbits about the Browns’ strategy regarding the upcoming draft: Let’s look at the highlights:
- The Browns are overwhelmingly likely to take a quarterback early in the draft, and have exhausted all options in terms of meeting with potential selections. The team worked out Johnny Manziel in College Station yesterday, and has also done its homework on big names like Blake Bortles and Derek Carr, plus lesser-known players such as Ball State’s Keith Wenning.
- Another option at quarterback could be Redskins backup Kirk Cousins, who was reportedly available earlier this offseason. Cabot suggests the young QB, who has experience in new Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan’s system, could be had for a third-round pick.
- Khalil Mack remains on the Browns radar, but Cabot thinks it is time for the team to use a top-five pick on a franchise quarterback. While Mack is undoubtedly an excellent prospect, Cleveland is already flush with pass-rushing talent, with the likes of Paul Kruger, Jabaal Sheard, and Barkevious Mingo manning the edge.
- Greg Robinson is also a strong possibility to be selected with the fourth overall pick, with Cleveland rumored to be dissatisfied with incumbent right tackle Mitchell Schwartz. Schwartz, however, graded out rather well according to Pro Football Focus, finishing with a +8.2 rating.
- A cornerback is also likely in the Browns’ plans, as the team could use a big, physical presence opposite Joe Haden. Buster Skrine is adept at covering the slot, but he is stretched when forced to play the outside.