Cleveland Browns: 5 Worst Draft Picks Since 1999

Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel (2) on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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2. DE Courtney Brown (2000- 1st Overall)

Brown seemed like a “can’t miss” prospect coming out of Penn State. He ran a ridiculous 4.52 forty-yard dash at the Penn State pro day and was a consensus All-American in 1999. Well, that success and athleticism did not translate to the pro level.

After a semi-productive rookie campaign Brown was hampered by injuries. He appeared in only 31 games from the 2001-2004 seasons. In total, he missed 33 games and played in 47 during his time with the Browns.

Brown was released after the 2004 season, and subsequently out of the NFL by 2005 after a brief stint with the Denver Broncos. Hell of a bust. The Browns’ second overall selection in this year’s draft is their highest since they selected Brown in 2000, we can only hope the end result is better.

Has there ever been a team swing and miss so badly with back-to-back first overall selections? Quarterback Tim Couch was selected first in 1999, and he didn’t exactly turn out to be Johnny Unitas.

From the very beginning, the expansion Cleveland Browns set the fan base’s expectations extremely low when it comes to high draft picks.

Next: 1. Johnny Manziel (2014- 22nd Overall)