Cleveland Browns: Best and worst case scenarios for the first round

There is plenty of optimism surrounding what the Cleveland Browns are going to do. However, just in case, knowing the best and worst case scenarios is worth keeping in mind.

Another NFL draft, another chance for the Cleveland Browns to add their franchise quarterback. Unlike past seasons there is no reason to believe a quarterback doesn’t end up in NE Ohio by the end of the first round.

The high expectation is that one will be selected first overall and go from there. On the other hand, another way of looking at things is drafting someone else first and then the quarterback at four. Hopefully, Cleveland does not do that, especially considering they have the first pick again. They need to select one.

So, with the uncertainty of the draft, what are the best and worst case scenarios for the Browns?

First scenario – Best: QB Sam Darnold, USC at one and DE/EDGE Bradley Chubb, NC State.

Cleveland gets their franchise quarterback who rides the bench and learns. Meanwhile, the Browns add a great addition to the front seven, mainly along the defensive line.

First scenario – Worst: Darnold at one and whomever among the top four quarterbacks at four.

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Rosen is the readiest to play QB now. For some, he has the biggest ceiling. Rosen, like others, has the tools to become a franchise quarterback.

Mayfield’s comparisons have been all over the board, but despite that he wins, is a leader, and makes plays. The underdog mentality certainly should be expected to be seen when he gets on the Browns field in this scenario.

The fourth pick is all preference. If Chubb is there at four, he should be the pick. However, if a team wants to give a boatload of picks, then that could be the route instead. If a trade is made (with any team), let’s say Notre Dame OT Mike McGlinchey is drafted in the trade back. The wildcard is Ward here as it goes back to the draft board and how Cleveland values him compared to other CBs.

Third scenario – Worst: Barkley at one and the highest rated quarterback at four.

Barkley is a talented player who depending on the team will have a great rookie season. At RB though, Barkley is not the franchise-altering player that will impact a team like any QB can. No RBs should go first but with his talent, at least he will make some plays in the backfield. Cleveland would be risking so much letting other teams dictate the options at four.

Fourth scenario – Best: Top quarterback at one and the fourth pick is dealt specifically to either the Buffalo Bills or Arizona Cardinals.

Cleveland adds their preference to open the draft and after multiple trade discussions with teams, they make a deal with the Bills or Cardinals. If it is the Cardinals, the Browns then select either McGlinchey, Ward or Iowa CB Josh Jackson, or LSU running back Derrius Guice. If it is Buffalo, at 12 and 22, Cleveland adds two of the following: OT, CB, and RB.

Fourth Scenario – Worst: Cleveland takes their QB at one and then selects Florida State defensive back Derwin James. Like most of the past scenarios, a signal-caller goes first. The surprise, however, is James. The former Seminole for some is better than Alabama’s Minkah Fitzpatrick. Wherever he lines up, James is going to make plays in DC Gregg Williams’ defense.

Next: The what I would do mock

Was that it? Nope, there is a bonus. One last worst scenario which is not a surprise is Wyoming’ Josh Allen. Selecting Allen at one or four would be beyond a worst-case scenario. There are so many routes Cleveland could go tonight. Whatever GM John Dorsey wants to do with the quarterback position (and other picks), hopefully, he gets it right.

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