It is time to rejoice, because hope is returning to Cleveland Browns Stadium with a new season. The Draft is a way that the NFL allows teams to rebuild with an infusion of youth and talent. This year Cleveland will get the 7th overall pick to make a splash with, and then 9 more picks to cover 7 rounds over 3 days. Here is a list of the picks taken in this year’s draft.
1. (7) Joe Haden CB, Florida. This is an interesting pick here. The team has needs at safety, and OLB, and the Browns just signed CB Sheldon Brown in free agency. Joe Haden is a solid player, but I don’t understand the need that Haden fills.
2. (38) TJ Ward S, Oregon. Another interesting pick. Ward fills a need at safety, although most had Ward as a 3rd round or later pick. Ward tallied 51 tackles and 1 pick, with 2 forced fumbles. He is 5’10 1/2″, 211 lbs.
2. (59) Montario Hardesty RB, Tennessee. A big bruising running back, Hardesty fits the mold of power back to complement Jerome Harrison. Hardesty was the SEC’s number 2 in yards per game last season. He has a few past injury concerns but has a chance to be very productive in the NFL.
3. (85) Colt McCoy QB, Texas. THE BEST PICK OF THE DRAFT! The all time winningest QB in NCAA FBS history. McCoy doesn’t have the big time arm to stretch the field and his accuracy can also dip on the longer throws. However, he shows a quick release the ability to move in the pocket and is extremely accurate with his underneath throws. He also brings great intangibles with his leadership and toughness.
4. (92) Shaun Lauvao OG, Arizona St. Lauvao is a limited overall athlete who possesses functional overall strength. He is a wide body in pass protection who makes it tough for defenders to get around him. He needs to clean up his angles to the point and learn to stay on blocks more. He will provide depth and could potentially develop into a starter down the road.
5. (160) Larry Asante S, Nebraska
6. (177) Carlton Mitchell WR, South Florida
7. (186) Clifton Geathers DE, South Carolina
