Cleveland Browns: Is Paxton Lynch Worth A Top 5 Pick?

Nov 7, 2015; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers quarterback Paxton Lynch (12) warms up before the game against the Navy Midshipmen at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit:

-USA TODAY Sports

Important Downsides To Make Note Of

Kris Grimes

So what are his downsides? Lynch plays in a shotgun spread offense. He rarely goes under center, and while he makes reads and progressions on his own, the offense isn’t the caliber of an NFL playbook.

Lynch has the height, enough arm strength, is athletic, and is mobile enough for the NFL. His statistics through three seasons leading the Tigers are strong, and there is a lot to like about his potential in the NFL. He is a come out of nowhere kind of name, and the kind of player who could find success in the NFL.

There’s a lot to like here. However, the NFL player I am worried Lynch reminds me of is former Cleveland Browns No. 1 overall pick Tim Couch. It’s the offensive shotgun spread offense system that Lynch plays in, the rise from nowhere to potential top five draft pick, and it’s the feeling that Lynch is a guy getting hype because prospects Goff and Cook didn’t light up the scoreboards on a few occasions.

That said, Lynch isn’t a player I would overlook despite my thoughts. Lynch may not be ready to go from day one of camp, and chances are he’ll sit for at least one season behind McCown, Manziel, or Austin Davis.

Ryan Rosko

This season was an eye-opening experience for fans and NFL teams while watching Lynch. Although he is mobile, I am not as sold as others in that aspect of his game. He has played against some good talent this week, which is something that has not necessarily been the case previously.

The level of talent that has been discussed is an issue, but should vary upon the person/team. Other small FBS programs have had quarterbacks move onto the NFL and find success. The point is, that if a quarterback or any other position can play and showcases the necessary skills to be successful, NFL teams will find them.

Next: At The End Of The Day, Should He Be A Brown?