NFL Draft 2012: How Cleveland Browns' Pursuit of Matt Flynn Shakes Up Draft

The Cleveland Browns have made it painfully clear that Colt McCoy is not their franchise quarterback. They've been linked to nearly every available quarterback name this offseason, in both the draft and free agency, and everyone expects them to start someone new in 2012.

Much of that speculation has surrounded Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III of Baylor. The rookie quarterback is expected to dazzle at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis (although he won't throw) and many expect his stock to soar to potential No. 2 overall pick status.

The Browns don't own the No. 2 pick, but they do own two first-round picks, including No. 4 overall. Furthermore, the Rams, owners of the No. 2 pick, should be interested in moving down due to their biggest needs and the value of which those positions hold in the draft.

However, what if the Browns don't want to wait for the draft to land a quarterback? 

According to Steve Doerschuk of CantonRep.com, the Browns intend to go after Matt Flynn in free agency:

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The brass will make a play for Matt Flynn. Mike Holmgren is no great fan of quarterback competitions. If he signs Flynn, it would be with the intention of starting Flynn.

There will be a budget that will not be exceeded in the play for Flynn. Peyton Manning’s presence on the market drives down his price. The availability of Luck, Griffin and Tannehill in the draft also drive down the price.

That still leaves the Dolphins as a suitor … and as the likely lander of Flynn.

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Essentially Doerschuk believes the Browns will make a tempered run at Flynn. They'll set a number, go no higher and sign him if the Dolphins and/or Redskins—teams desperate for a QB in the free agent/draft market—don't.

Cleveland is the least appealing option of the three.

Miami will make a strong run at Peyton if he becomes available, but Flynn is the most likely option for them. There is a chance that the Packers franchise tag Flynn, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette (via Pro Football Talk), but that would ultimately be surprising.

The Browns won't settle for Ryan Tannehill in the draft and they're unlikely to land Flynn in free agency.

Barring anything crazy, they're still the most likely team to trade up the board for Robert Griffin III.