2017 NFL Draft: Which QBs are Needy Teams Connected To?
By Erik Lambert
It’s no secret the 2017 NFL draft will be determined by the fate of its quarterback class. This is the way it always goes in the modern football era.
What fans are dying to know is where these young men end up. It’s almost impossible to figure out so early in the evaluation process. The Senior Bowl just ended. There is still the Scouting Combine and pro days to go. Final boards aren’t set until that time. Nevertheless it’s interesting to hear names get connected to teams. Thus the inevitable question must be asked.
Among the most QB-needy teams of 2017, which names are they being connected to the most? There are a few surprises on that front.
Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson
Given the fact that Hue Jackson and the Cleveland Browns were interested in Robert Griffin III from the beginning, this shouldn’t be a surprise. Deshaun Watson has already drawn a number of comparison to the former Washington Redskins Pro Bowler. He might represent a younger version of what this Browns staff wants to build around. Something Matt Miller of Bleacher Report is hearing as serious interest.
"“I’ve spoken to multiple scouts, one general manager and even a prominent trainer who have all been told the Browns are enamored with Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson—but not at No. 1 overall. The Browns have two picks in the first round—the first one and then Philadelphia’s pick at No. 12 as part of last year’s Carson Wentz trade. It’s with their second pick in Round 1 that my sources believe the Browns would like to see Watson available.”"
Cleveland has tried the exceptional physical specimens for years at that position. Their best options though were guys like Bernie Kosar. Not great athletes at all but leaders who understood how to get it done in crunch time. Watson showed during his two years at Clemson that this is what he’s about. The Browns want a playmaker who isn’t phased by big moments against tough opponents.