2012 NFL Draft: Passing on Robert Griffin III Will Haunt Browns

Barring an unforeseen change in philosophy by one of the top three teams, the Browns will have the opportunity to draft Robert Griffin III; and they must take advantage of it. If they allow this chance to pass, they will regret it for as long as RG3 is in the NFL.

Griffin III looks like one of the most potentially dynamic players in the past 10 years.

His athleticism is off the charts, but that isn't what makes him special. Sure, RG3 ran a 4.4. 40 out of high school and he is an Olympic-level hurdler, but even Michael Bishop of Kansas State in the 1990s was a great athlete. He didn't have the QB package that RG3 has.

Griffin is an amazing leader, with the on-the-fly football I.Q. necessary to succeed on the NFL level. Griffin can make all the throws, but his ability to prepare makes the combination of athleticism and intelligence potentially the perfect storm.

It has been reported that RG3 has struggled reading defenses, but to that I say, doesn't every rookie QB? Peyton Manning threw 28 INTs as a rookie and things turned out pretty well for him.

In evaluating QBs, you are looking at the physical and mental package. You're trying to gauge the ceiling and the propensity for reaching that ceiling. RG3 has a great chance to max out (full scouting report here).

Phil Taylor of the Cleveland Browns and former Griffin teammate at Baylor said this of doubts about RG3's passing and pro integration:

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“They said the same thing about Cam—‘Is he gonna adapt to the system?’ And he’s doing great right now with Carolina,” Taylor said. “They may not have won many games, but he’s still doing good for a rookie quarterback. I think (Griffin) will, too."

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The Browns have been looking for a franchise QB since Bernie Kosar. Colt McCoy, for all his intangible gifts, has shown he isn't that guy. He led an offense ranked 30th in points scored, threw for 2733 yards, 14 TDs and 11 INTs.

Is he a serviceable backup? Absolutely, but a franchise QB he is not.

To the Browns' credit, they appear to be willing to do whatever it takes to nab RG3. Reports have surfaced that they are willing to move up to the No. 2 spot to ensure they get their man. Several other teams have expressed interest and the move may be necessary to get Griffin.

The Rams, who hold the second pick, could still get their projected target, WR Justin Blackmon, with the 4th pick—plus they'll be adding additional picks.

It's a win-win situation, and one the Browns have to make happen if necessary. The last thing this franchise needs is to watch RG3 excite fans and lead the Vikings, Redskins or Dolphins to the postseason, while they struggle to score with McCoy.

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