2012 NFL Draft: Grading the Cleveland Browns' Selection of Brandon Weeden

The Cleveland Browns used their second first-round pick to select Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden 22nd overall. The choice is no doubt going to generate controversy and immediately raises questions about the future of Colt McCoy.

Bringing Weeden in is a clear signal to McCoy that the front office's confidence in him is shaky at best. After adding a backfield weapon like Trent Richardson, the Browns could have opted for a receiver like Stephen Hill if they feel McCoy is the unquestioned starter.

Weeden certainly gives the Cleveland offense a more physically-gifted presence in the pocket. He possesses tremendous arm strength, and his delivery is decisive.

Weeden is a bold passer and is not afraid to trust his arm in order to try and produce a big play, something McCoy, and the Browns' offense as a whole, has lacked. Concerns about his age shouldn't count against the 28-year-old.

However, the fact that he will turn 29 as a rookie could be one more reason why Cleveland fans should expect to see Weeden start sooner rather than later. By taking a chance on the 6'4", 221-pounder, the Browns have landed a more dynamic, down the field passer.

Weeden does have issues, particularly with footwork. However, his problems all concern technique and he should be able to iron out these deficiencies under the tutelage of Mike Holmgren and Pat Shurmur.

Holmgren refined the rough edges of Brett Favre's game and managed to give license to his natural playmaking skills within a structured system. With Richardson to rely on early, Weeden could make a quick pro transition.

Grade: B

They may have set up a quarterback controversy, but the Browns have taken a chance that could quickly pay off and result in wins.