Cleveland Browns Day 1 2014 NFL Draft Primer

The 2014 NFL draft is finally here, and the Cleveland Browns are gearing up for a huge weekend. It's already been a busy offseason for the Browns, as they gained and lost several players in free agency. However, it seems inevitable that this weekend will blow away the rest of the offseason.

The rumors are already flying. There are reports of every form—one says they really want this guy, one says they don't want the exact same person. 

So no one knows for sure what is going to happen. We do have an idea of what the most likely scenarios are and what absolutely will not happen.

Of course, the uncertainty is what makes it fun. And with the Browns, there is a whole lot of uncertainty.

Departures and Additions

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It was an interesting offseason for the Browns, highlighted by multiple additions, a big retention and a significant loss. Cleveland lost T.J. Ward to the Denver Broncos but replaced him with Donte Whitner, which was essentially a trade-off. The team did the same thing with Karlos Dansby and D'Qwell Jackson, getting older but better.

The Browns also made an effort to improve at wide receiver, signing Andrew Hawkins away from the Cincinnati Bengals. Hawkins will serve as the team's slot receiver and could be a valuable weapon. Additionally, the team signed Nate Burleson, though he probably won't be anything beyond depth.

At running back, Ben Tate provides a much-needed upgrade. The running back position was a disaster in 2014, and Tate is a solid player with potential moving forward.

Probably the most fascinating storyline was Alex Mack. Cleveland used the transition tag on the All-Pro center, only for Jacksonville to sign him to an offer sheet. That storyline was quickly resolved, though, as the Browns matched the Jaguars' offer within hours.

Cleveland entered the offseason with an abundance of salary-cap room, and it exits with more than enough. This is crucial, as the Browns have some young players—such as Joe Haden, Jordan Cameron and Josh Gordon—with expiring contracts in the next couple of years.

On the whole, the Browns may not have gotten too much better in free agency, but they didn't get any worse. And that's a start.

Departures

D'Qwell Jackson

T.J. Ward

Davone Bess

Oniel Cousins

Brandon Weeden

Jason Campbell

Shawn Lauvao

Willis McGahee

Additions

Ben Tate, RB

Karlos Dansby, ILB

Donte Whitner, SS

Jim Dray, TE

Isaiah Trufant, CB

Paul McQuistan, OL

Andrew Hawkins, WR

Nate Burleson, WR

Chris Pressley, FB

Vince Young, QB

Tyler Thigpen, QB

Team Needs

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After free agency, the Browns' top needs didn't change much. Cleveland strengthened up a few positions, such as linebacker, wide receiver and running back, but the Browns still have holes at all three of those spots.

Quarterback remains an issue for Cleveland, as do right tackle and cornerback. None of these positions were addressed much at all during free agency, and the Browns are sure to look there early in the draft. 

Quarterback

Though the Browns released Campbell and Weeden, this position is essentially the same as it was before the offseason began. Cleveland did sign Young and Thigpen, but neither should be seen as a solution to anything.

Brian Hoyer is the team's only semi-legitimate option on the roster. The 28-year-old played well in limited action last year, and he could see time as a starter even if the Browns do draft a quarterback in the first round. 

Even if Cleveland does decide on Hoyer as its starter, however, it needs to look for a backup. Expect the Browns to draft at least one quarterback, be it in the first round or the seventh.

Wide Receiver

In Gordon, Cleveland has one star wide receiver. The 23-year-old gained over 1,600 yards in 2013 and has the potential to be an elite wideout for years to come. 

After Gordon, though, the situation gets a bit hazier. The Browns signed Hawkins as a restricted free agent from the Bengals, and he should take care of the slot for Cleveland. Hawkins isn't a star by any means, but he was a solid contributor in Cincinnati and has the ability to be better.

The Browns also have Burleson and Travis Benjamin, though they are nothing more than backups. Cleveland desperately needs a No. 2 wide receiver, and the team could use a No. 4 option, as well. 

Inside Linebacker

Cleveland signed Dansby to replace Jackson at inside linebacker, but the other inside position is still an issue. Craig Robertson played there last year, struggling immensely. Robertson would be fine as a backup, but he probably shouldn't start. 

In Mike Pettine's defense, it is important to have inside linebackers capable of performing in all facets of the game. Dansby is a perfect example of a player who can do this, but the Browns don't have another one.

With just one decent addition here, Cleveland would have a rock-solid linebacker unit, giving the team a strong defense on the whole.

Offensive Line

This could be addressed by adding either a guard or right tackle. If the Browns draft a right tackle, Mitchell Schwartz could kick inside and play guard, or they could draft a guard and leave Schwartz at tackle.

Schwartz had a solid rookie season but struggled in his second year. His biggest issue has been in pass protection, and that would be remedied by moving him inside.

Upgrading over Schwartz would probably be the best option for the Browns, as it would upgrade two positions instead of just one. However, he isn't horribly incompetent at tackle, and if the better value is at guard, the Browns could look there instead. 

Cornerback

Haden is a solid No. 1 cornerback, and surprisingly, Buster Skrine developed into a decent starter in 2013. Skrine isn't anything amazing, though, and after him, depth is a major issue. 

Leon McFadden is the team's best option for a nickelback, but he barely played last year as a rookie. He could develop into a good player, but it is difficult to rely on him, as he hasn't proved anything yet. 

This probably isn't a first-round need for the Browns, but if the value is right, it is possible that Cleveland goes there early. 

Top Targets

This is not necessarily my opinion of who the Browns should pick, but rather what I'm guessing their board might look like. Players who are not options given Cleveland's No. 4 selection were not included. 

1. Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn

Greg Robinson is a physically dominant offensive tackle with huge potential. He isn't quite ready as a pass-protector yet, but his upside is incredible.

As a rookie, Robinson could play guard for the Browns, but there is a possibility that he would immediately step in for Schwartz at right tackle. 

2. Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo

Khalil Mack could go as high as No. 1, but there is a chance that he will be available when the Browns come on the clock. Though he is primarily a pass-rusher, Mack would probably play inside for Cleveland, next to Dansby.

Mack would be an effective blitzer inside with the ability to move around while also dropping back in coverage and defending the run. The addition of Mack would give Pettine and Co. significantly more flexibility with their scheme while making the defense much more dangerous.

3. Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M

Cleveland is still looking for a wide receiver to play opposite Gordon, and Mike Evans is a potential matchup nightmare. Not many defenses have the defenders to handle two wideouts as big and athletic as Gordon and Evans.

Evans would give the Browns a tremendous threat inside the red zone, and he can stretch the field as well. The Texas A&M product has great catching ability and would help to bail out Cleveland's QB, whoever it may be. 

4. Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M

An electrifying player, Johnny Manziel is a potential franchise quarterback. He is best known for his running ability and tendency to improvise, but Manziel is also a good passer from the pocket. 

It's difficult to say whether the Browns will target Manziel, but it makes sense on many levels. Cleveland doesn't have a long-term option at quarterback, and Manziel would energize the team, which desperately needs some hope.

5. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville

By far the most NFL-ready quarterback in the draft, Teddy Bridgewater may not have the upside some of the other passers do, but he is safe. Bridgewater is accurate, smart and technically sound. He would start from day one for the Browns.

It is possible that Bridgewater could be an option for Cleveland with the second first-round pick, though the team may need to trade up to ensure he's available. However, Bridgewater can make an immediate impact for the Browns, and he does have upside moving forward. 

6. Blake Bortles, QB, Central Florida

At 6'5", 240 pounds, Blake Bortles has something that both Bridgewater and Manziel lack: He looks like the prototype quarterback. Bortles needs a lot of work from a technical standpoint, but his potential is huge, as he is a great athlete with strong physical ability.

This would be a long-term pick for the Browns. It's unlikely Bortles would be able to start immediately, and he may not see much playing time as a rookie at all. 

7. Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson

A dangerous player with the ball in his hands, Sammy Watkins can stretch the field vertically and make plays after the catch. He and Gordon would give the Browns a dangerous duo of wide receivers with huge big-play ability.

It would be difficult for any defense to contain the sheer playmaking ability of both Gordon and Watkins. The addition of Watkins would give Cleveland a dangerous group of skill players.

8. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M

While his upside isn't as great as Robinson's is, Jake Matthews is more ready to play tackle. The Texas A&M product is technically sound and athletic, but he lacks the power Robinson possesses. 

It is almost certain that Matthews will be a good offensive tackle, but he will probably never be a great one. If Robinson isn't an option, Matthews would be an upgrade at right tackle for the Browns. 

What Are the Experts Saying?

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Mel Kiper Jr. (subscription required): Johnny Manziel (at No. 4)

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Manziel is not my top-rated QB, but he is the QB I believe (right now) is likeliest to go this high, as I believe a team like Cleveland, with a number of draft assets and a QB on the roster it feels can create a bridge to a young starter, is in a good scenario to take a chance on Manziel's ceiling. The Browns owning the No. 26 pick as well as an early second-rounder gives them a chance to take a player like Watkins here if available and consider a QB later, but this is how I see it as of right now.

"

Manziel is a legitimate possibility for the Browns. He has the potential to transform a team, and given the quarterbacks on their roster, the Browns would be foolish not to consider him at No. 4. 

Mike Mayock: Jake Matthews (at No. 4)

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This is a bit of a head-scratcher, but then again nothing should surprise you when it comes to the Browns on draft day. Matthews is worthy of this slot, but the Browns made a longterm commitment to Joe Thomas, which means Cleveland would be using the fourth overall pick on a right tackle. Sammy Watkins, Mike Evans or one of the quarterbacks you believe in (unless you don't believe in any of them) would seem more logical.

"

This doesn't seem especially likely, but it is definitely possible. Robinson is already off the board, and if the Browns are set on drafting an offensive lineman, Matthews is clearly the guy to take. He would be a day-one starter. 

Todd McShay (subscription required): Cody Latimer (at No. 26)

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The Browns got their QB at No. 4 in Manziel, and now they'll add a weapon for him to throw to opposite Josh Gordon. I was really impressed with Latimer's tape when I finally got the chance to study him recently, and he's a really good fit for an offense like Cleveland's that figures to incorporate some West Coast principles under new offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. He has good size, instincts, run-after-catch ability and toughness.

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This is another pick that would make sense for Cleveland. If the Browns go with a quarterback at No. 4, they should look strongly at wide receiver with the No. 26 pick. Cody Latimer is the type of big wideout Cleveland seems likely to target, and he has great potential. 

Dane Brugler: Kyle Fuller (at No. 26)  

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As the Browns begin talks to lock up Joe Haden long-term, they'll also be looking to draft a worthy counterpart for the No. 2 cornerback spot in Cleveland. Fuller has the instincts and natural athleticism to be an impact performer on the inside or outside.

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Cornerback may not be the Browns' biggest need, but it is an area of concern. Additionally, Kyle Fuller is a solid value near the end of the first round. Fuller could compete with Skrine immediately, and in the worst case, he would serve as the team's nickelback. 

Rob Rang: Bradley Roby (at No. 26)

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The Browns feature one of the league's better young corners in Joe Haden but need better play on the other side to complement him. Roby has the athleticism and physicality to warrant top 20 consideration but off-field issues and inconsistency makes him a bit of a gamble and could push him down the board.

"

It's difficult to gauge just where Bradley Roby's value is at this point. He struggled a bit in 2013, and his recent DUI arrest won't help his stock any. However, he is a possibility near the end of the first round, and the position makes sense for Cleveland.

Latest Rumors, Reports and Analysis

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The Browns will take Greg Robinson if he's available, otherwise Johnny Manziel

According to Chris Mortensen, Cleveland will take Robinson if he's still on the board at No. 4, but Mortensen expects Manziel to be the pick.

"ESPN's Chris Mortensen believes the Browns will take Auburn offensive tackle Greg Robinson at No. 4, and that if Robinson isn't there, they'll draft either Johnny Manziel or trade out of the pick," via Mary Kay Cabot of The Plain Dealer. 

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Here's what @mortreport really said on ESPN today: he believes #Browns will take OT Robinson at 4. If he's not there, Manziel or trade out.

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) May 5, 2014"

This makes sense on multiple levels. Manziel is an exciting player who would fill the Browns' biggest need. Additionally, Robinson is a terrific talent who also addresses a need, whether he plays tackle or guard. 

Both of these players have been projected in mock drafts for quite some time, so neither would would be a huge shock.

The Browns will not take Johnny Manziel

Jay Glazer reported that the Browns will not select Manziel with the No. 4 pick.

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Browns won't be drafting Manziel at #4. I know it's been out there a ton that they will but no that's not how they have it

— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) May 6, 2014"

Again, this isn't a huge surprise. There hasn't been anything to suggest Cleveland is completely locked in on a quarterback at No. 4, though the team could use one. 

Plenty of fans are hoping for Manziel at No. 4, and it still wouldn't be a shock if he's the pick, especially considering the first rumor here. It's not draft season unless there are directly conflicting reports.

The Browns are enamored with Teddy Bridgewater

Mary Kay Cabot is reporting that Ray Farmer is fascinated with Bridgewater and would love to land him at No. 26:

"Browns general manager Ray Farmer is enamored with former Louisville quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and will strongly consider him at No. 26, league sources have told cleveland.com."

Once more, nothing in this report is too shocking. The one thing that does seem weird, however, is that if Farmer loves Bridgewater so much, why would the Browns take the chance of missing out on him by passing once?

If Cleveland likes Bridgewater as much as this report claims, the team should just take him at No. 4, not try to get him at the end of the first round. 

7-Round Cleveland Browns Mock Draft

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Round 1, Pick No. 4: Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M

At this point, I'm buying Glazer's report that the Browns are not taking Manziel. Robinson will probably be gone by No. 4, and if he is, that leaves Evans as the most likely option.

Evans isn't the dynamic player Watkins is, but he is a big, vertical threat, and Cleveland is rumored to like him. Opposite Gordon, Evans could be a terrific weapon in Cleveland, regardless of who the quarterback is.

Round 1, Pick No. 26: Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville

This one could require a trade up, but the Browns aren't going to wait long before drafting a quarterback, and Bridgewater is a steal outside of the top 10. Though he lacks great vertical ability, Bridgewater can spread the ball around with accuracy.

Bridgewater could join the Browns and immediately compete with Hoyer for the starting job. Even if he wouldn't immediately start, Bridgewater would give Cleveland a long-term option. 

Round 2, Pick No. 37: Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State

Though he wasn't great in 2013, Roby still has plenty of potential. He is a terrific athlete with surprising physicality and toughness. 

Cleveland probably has bigger needs than cornerback here, but the value matches up with Roby, from a talent perspective at least. Following a recent DUI arrest, Roby could fall some, but it seems likely that he will go in this general vicinity.

Round 3, Pick No. 71: Trai Turner, OG, LSU

By this point in the draft, there aren't many great options at tackle, but Trai Turner is a potential starter at guard. The 6'3", 310-pounder is big and strong but surprisingly athletic as well.

In the zone-blocking scheme Cleveland is implementing, quickness and footwork are key. Turner is an agile player with quick feet, even though he isn't the prototype zone-blocking-scheme guard. He would provide an upgrade, even as a rookie.

Round 3, Pick No. 83: Kyle Van Noy, LB, BYU

Versatile, Kyle Van Noy is capable of playing inside or outside linebacker. The BYU product is an adept pass-rusher with experience dropping back in coverage and blitzing.

Van Noy fits Pettine's requirement that an inside linebacker be able to blitz and play in coverage. Though he still may need some work in coverage, Van Noy can develop into a solid player against the pass. 

Round 4, Pick No. 106: Carl Bardford, LB, Arizona State

Barkevious Mingo, Paul Kruger, Jabaal Sheard and Quentin Groves give the Browns a deep outside linebacker unit. However, Sheard is a free agent after 2014, and Groves is nothing more than depth.

Carl Bradford is a talented pass-rusher with great burst, though he lacks length. Like Van Noy, he has the flexibility to play either inside or outside in a 3-4 scheme. Bradford could start out as a situational pass-rusher, eventually earning more playing time.

Round 4, Pick No. 127: Shaq Evans, WR, UCLA

Cleveland already drafted one wide receiver, but it could use more. At 6'1", 215 pounds, Shaq Evans is a strong, physical receiver with decent athleticism.

It's unlikely that Evans ever develops into a star. However, he could become a solid contributor, especially out of the slot. 

Round 5, Pick No. 145: Brock Vereen, S, Minnesota

Tashaun Gipson played well in 2013, but it's difficult to say if he will keep performing at a high level. Regardless of whether Gipson is a long-term solution, the Browns could use more depth at safety.

Brock Vereen is just 6'0", 199 pounds, but he is capable of playing either safety position. In fact, Vereen has even played cornerback, so he could provide depth on the outside. He is an intelligent player with solid range and coverage skills. 

Round 6, Pick No. 180: Lache Seastrunk, RB, Baylor

Even after signing Tate, the Browns don't have much depth at running back. Chris Ogbonnaya is a good blocker and receiver, but he isn't much of a runner, and Dion Lewis is difficult to rely on.

Lache Seastrunk is an incredibly explosive running back with the ability to start and stop in an instant. His vision is suspect, however, and he hasn't shown much ability to run inside. With time, though, he could develop into an explosive contributor off the bench.

Round 7, Pick No. 218: Jake Murphy, TE, Utah

Cameron is obviously a good starting tight end. Gary Barnidge and Jim Dray, on the other hand, aren't the most solid of backups. Jake Murphy is a decent athlete with great hands, though he may not be a traditional in-line tight end.

In time, Murphy could work as a decent H-back, catching passes out of the backfield and splitting out. This isn't a wonder solution, but then again, it's the seventh round.