NFL

Somebody in Cleveland Finally Gets it

Posted Jan 26, 2007 7:27PM By Ryan Wilson (RSS feed)

Filed Under: Browns, AFC North, NFL Draft

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If we're talking about the NFL draft, it probably means the Browns have a top-of-the-round pick. Since returning to Cleveland in 1999, top-10 first-round selections include: Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, Gerard Warren, Courtney Brown, and Tim Couch. Notice anything missing? That's right, nary an offensive linemen. In fact, center Jeff Faine is the only offensive linemen Cleveland's taken in the first round, and he's now in New Orleans. But all that could change:
[Wisconsin left tackle Joe] Thomas was of such high interest to the Browns [at Senior Bowl practices] because, as one member of the staff said, they are looking for an "infusion" of offensive linemen in this draft. Thomas is probably the only lineman worthy of consideration with the Browns' first pick, which will be at either No. 3 or No. 4 pending a coin flip with Tampa Bay.
Better late than never, I guess.

There had been some talk Cleveland might use their pick on a quarterback -- maybe JaMarcus Nelson Russell or before the National Championship Game, Troy Smith -- but such a strategy just avoids the obvious problems the Browns faced last year. Namely, no offensive line means no offense.

I'll admit it , I wrote that Cleveland should consider taking a quarterback, but after some thought -- and some thoughtful comments -- I've changed my mind. If the Browns started the 2007 season with Tom Brady under center and their 2006 offensive line, Cleveland might win seven games. Maybe.

Even with the No. 3 or 4 pick, there's no guarantee Joe Thomas will be available, but if he is, Cleveland has to draft him. If not for the children, for Charlie Frye/Derek Anderson/QB TBA.

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