Browns Must Name Brandon Weeden as Starter over Colt McCoy to Avoid Controversy

The Cleveland Browns made the decision in April; now they must stand by it. 

Of course, I'm referring to the choice made by team president Mike Holmgren and general manager Tom Heckert to draft quarterback Brandon Weeden in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. 

After playing in only 21 games in his NFL career, without the semblance of true offensive weapons at his disposal, some believe incumbent starter Colt McCoy would be getting a raw deal if Cleveland officially announces Weeden as the starter in the near future. 

Unfortunately for McCoy, the NFL is a business ultimately judged by wins and losses, and his team's front office made a business decision when they selected Weeden in Round 1.

In defense of management's decision to draft Weeden, McCoy was hardly impressive during what was a make-or-break season for the former Texas Longhorn. He completed only 57.2 percent of his passes, for 2,733 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions—the definition of "pedestrian."

Conversely, Weeden is a heady gunslinger who can make all the throws and is ready to play now. At 28 years of age, the Browns simply can't afford to wait on their second pick of the first round.

What Weeden lacks in NFL experience to McCoy, he makes up for in arm strength and accuracy.

With rookie runner Trent Richardson in the mix, Cleveland won't need a huge statistical season from Weeden, but at least his arm will pose a bigger threat to opposing defenses.

McCoy may be getting treated unfairly, but after what transpired in late April, there's nothing else the Browns can do than name Weeden as the team's starting quarterback.

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