10 moves the Cleveland Browns must make during the 2018 offseason
3. Draft a quarterback
It just doesn’t seem like the Browns are going to throw the richest contract in NFL history during free agency. The vibe around the local media is that the Browns will find a bridge quarterback who can win games, while the rookie incubates on the bench.
By now, most Browns fans know the names of the big-time quarterback prospects. Sam Darnold, Josh Rosen, Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield are most frequently talked about with the No. 1 pick. Some advocate the selection of Louisville’s Lamar Jackson.
If pressed, Darnold would probably be my selection. If that’s the case, he definitely needs to sit, as it’s obvious turning over the ball is a problem.
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But he’s accurate, athletic, and his upside is huge. Just imagine if he stayed in college and played his final two seasons? He could have an Andrew Luck aura about him.
With a veteran on board, in addition to DeShone Kizer, I’m confident Darnold would be afforded the opportunity to learn the game from the sideline.
If Kizer proved anything during the 2017 season, it’s that he’s durable, so if the veteran who is acquired goes down, the Browns have a backup plan.
There is a caveat here. If Darnold is the Browns’ choice, then Kirk Cousins won’t be coming to Cleveland. Whomever Cleveland designates as its franchise quarterback must have the entire backing of the franchise.
Regarding Rosen, I do question his leadership ability and some of the things that have come out about him recently. Before John Dorsey got the Browns gig, he told one NFL Draft writer that he’d stay away from the UCLA product. For what it’s worth, Rosen looks like the best passer right now.
Don’t discount Mayfield either. I know, the crotch grab has rubbed people the wrong way. But I’m impressed with his pocket presence. Go back and watch that Ohio State game. He’ll win you over.
As for Jackson, I defer questions to former Factory of Sadness site expert and current OBR scribe Jared Mueller. I’ll go on the record as saying “no thanks” to Jackson, but Jared can tell you why he’s a Lamar fan.