Trent Richardson to Cleveland Browns: A Smart Move

With the third pick of the 2012 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns selected running back Trent Richardson, and it was a brilliant—albeit mocked—move.

The Browns gave up multiple second-day picks to the Minnesota Vikings just to move up one spot from No. 4, and that's a big reason why they were so criticized, but it was a smart move nonetheless.

Here's a closer breakdown of the decision to trade up and the selection of Richardson.

Moving Up One Pick Was Worth It

Of course, the biggest criticism was that Cleveland shouldn't have given up so many picks just to move out of No. 4, where they conceivably could have gotten Richardson.

But here's the thing.

The Browns had an amazing 13 picks coming into this draft. Not all of those players were going to make the team, so trading a few picks wasn't that big of a deal, especially since they weren't second- or third-round picks.

What's more, someone was going to move up to Minnesota's No. 3 pick, and it was a good possibility they would have taken Richardson.

Richardson was obviously Cleveland's guy, and the Browns did exactly what they needed to do to get him. Nothing else would have been acceptable. 

Richardson Improves Offense More Than Justin Blackmon

The Browns scored an embarrassing 13.6 points per game last year, which was good for third worst in the NFL. There were plenty of options for their first pick, but it had to be someone who improved the offense.

That left Richardson or wide receiver Justin Blackmon.

Blackmon would have given Colt McCoy another weapon in the air, which would be helpful, but he just wouldn't help the offense like Richardson can.

Richardson, who is arguably the best running back prospect since LaDanian Tomlinson or Adrian Peterson, has much more big-play potential than Blackmon.

He's good through the tackles, he's fast, and he's elusive. He'll break multiple 40-yard runs this season and he'll score touchdowns.

Colt McCoy to Justin Blackmon would be intriguing, but not nearly as explosive.

Also, wide receiver is much deeper, and taking a wideout at No. 22 makes much more sense than taking a running back there. 

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