Trent Richardson: Why Cleveland Browns Must Bolster Offense with Alabama RB

Trent Richardson isn't an ordinary running back prospect. The Alabama star doesn't need to get taken off the field on certain downs or be brought along at a snail's pace. He's ready to dominate from day one, which is why the Cleveland Browns must take him with the fourth pick.

Fellow offensive skill position stars Justin Blackmon and Ryan Tannehill have been mentioned as possibilities for the Browns during the draft process, but neither one makes as much sense as Richardson.

The wide receiver class has plenty of depth with potential impact performers likely available into the third round. Taking Tannehill with the fourth pick would be a major reach, putting extra pressure on a quarterback that already faces a steep learning curve.

Richardson on the other hand will immediately become the team's most explosive player. He would have little trouble overtaking Montario Hardesty and Chris Ogbonnaya to earn the starting job and would never look back.

The Browns offense has lacked playmakers for far too long. The team had hoped Josh Cribbs would at least give them one dynamic offensive player, but he's been far too inconsistent for a young quarterback like Colt McCoy to rely on.

In order for McCoy to show any signs of improvement, his supporting cast must improve and that starts with a strong running game. Richardson demands attention, giving the defense no choice but to sell out to make sure he doesn't break loose.

That will in turn open up passing lanes that likely seemed microscopic for McCoy last season when the running game was ineffective. The Browns pick again later in the first round, and a wide receiver should be atop their list of targets to further improve the offense.

Playing in the AFC North, it's no secret to the Browns front office that a solid offense led by a strong running game is essential to success. They aren't going to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers or Baltimore Ravens consistently unless changes are made.

And it all starts with Richardson. Running backs like Doug Martin and David Wilson that will be available when Cleveland picks again simply won't be able to come close to matching Richardson's all-around ability anytime soon, if ever.

Another thing that makes Richardson a wise pick is his lack of work for the Crimson Tide. While at nearly every other position a lack of experience hurts a prospect, it's good for running backs because it means they have less mileage on their legs and increases their shelf life.

He only started for one season at Alabama, but his more than 2,000 total yards and 24 touchdowns prove he's ready for the NFL. It also helps that the transition period for ball carriers isn't nearly as long as a quarterback like Tannehill.

When you add up all the factors, both big and small, it's clear the Browns should select Richardson at No. 4. Any other choice would increase the amount of time it takes for them to get back in contention for a playoff spot.

It's been nearly a decade since the team's last berth and Browns fans are surely tired of waiting.