Ranking every Cleveland Browns first round draft pick since 1999

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HOUSTON – OCTOBER 30: Wide receiver Braylon Edwards #17 of the Cleveland Browns hauls in a reception in front of cornerback Demarcus Faggins #38 of the Houston Texans on October 30, 2005 at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas. The Texans defeated the Browns 19-16 for their first victory of the year. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images) /

10. WR Braylon Edwards, 2005 – 3rd Overall

For a long time, and maybe even into modern-day, the best receiver the new Cleveland Browns have ever had was Braylon Edwards. It speaks volumes about the quality of his play and how bad the Browns have been getting receiving talent in Cleveland. Sure, you can look at Jarvis Landry’s first two years in Cleveland and make a case for him, but the fact that two good years is what we’re talking about really puts things in perspective.

Unfortunately, having three seasons of 800+ yards is the benchmark to be compared. Edwards had a Pro Bowl season in 2007 and was second-team All-Pro as well. Despite catching 17 touchdowns in 2007, he only had three in 2008. He did have 23 drops though.

That’s not better but it’s a big stat and part of the reason why Edwards was run out of town. He was the third overall pick, you can’t have 23 drops. That said, in hindsight, until Landry showed up the Browns never had a receiver as reliable as Edwards.

That’s not something to be happy about, but it is the sad reality of the situation. Edwards finished his career with over 5,000 yards receiving and 40 touchdowns. Not Hall of Fame numbers but he never really played with a great quarterback either.

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