The Browns have swapped picks with the Vikings, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press (on Twitter). Now, it’ll be the Browns at No. 8 and the Vikings selecting at No. 9. The Vikings got the Browns’ fifth-round pick, the 145th pick overall, for agreeing to move down, Birkett tweets. The Browns will select cornerback Justin Gilbert at No. 8, tweets Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com.
With the selection, Gilbert becomes the first defensive back to come off the board. The Oklahoma State star ran a 4.37 40-yard-dash at the combine and has been praised for his kick return ability. Most draft analysts have dubbed Gilbert as the best cornerback in the draft. Earlier tonight, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported that the Browns were looking to trade down for a cornerback. By moving from No. 4 to No. 9 to No. 8, Cleveland has accomplished their goal. Gilbert is something of a surprise for Cleveland, but they now have a dangerous pair of corners with him and Joe Haden in tow.
The Browns acquired the No. 9 pick just minutes ago when they traded the No. 4 to the Bills.