Cleveland Browns: Draft Grades and Analysis

The Cleveland Browns had their most interesting draft since the team resurfaced in 1999. All eyes have been on the Browns since the front office began their analytical approach to scouting and eventually drafting players. Mock drafts showed just how far off analysts were, even in my latest mock I was only able to choose 3 out of the 14 draft picks.

For once, since the 2009 draft, the Browns have drafted players that show long term promise and fit the mold of what’s been missing on this football team for many years.

In previous articles I stated that if the Browns didn’t select a quarterback in the first 32 picks, or even the first two rounds, that they would essentially be endorsing Robert Griffin III as their starting quarterback. While Hue has come out and said it’s open season for the quarterback competition, it’s hard to imagine a scenario in which RGII isn’t starting week one of the NFL season (barring any injury). McCown remains on the roster, as do Austin Davis and Connor Shaw. In previous regimes, Davis and Shaw gave a taste of their ability but never enough to look like the answer at quarterback.

It’ll be interesting to see if Hue Jackson’s new system benefits either quarterback’s ability as a signal caller. Even more curious is the draft selection of a quarterback that many hadn’t linked to the Browns or any team previously. He’s shown ability and very well could be a gem in this year’s draft class, something the Browns believe they’re digging up in their new draft process.

If you’re one that’s weary of the future or aren’t sure about this year’s draft class, it’s completely understandable. The Browns have been down for many years and the draft has never gone how many in the fan base want, or expect it to be. The analysis of these picks hopefully gives some insight on the future and what the Browns are potentially looking at moving forward.

Next: Round One