POSTS
(RSS)
Cleveland Browns 2008 NFL Draft Needs
The Cleveland Browns were the surprise team last season as they were so close to making the playoffs for the first time since 2002. They tied the Steelers for the best record in the AFC North at 10-6, but wound up missing out because of a tiebreaker. That just goes to show how hard the AFC can be, as it seems its becoming more of regularity for a 10-6 team to miss out on the playoffs. The Browns have been fairly quit this offseason but have added some solid pieces in OG Rex Hadnot, DT Shaun Rogers, DT Corey Williams, and WR Donte Stallworth. The team didn’t help its defensive needs by trading away CB Leigh Bodden and losing CB Simon Fraser to free agency. The Browns are without a first round pick in this year’s draft due to the trade in last year’s draft to bring in QB Brady Quinn. Actually you won’t be seeing much of the Browns at all on day one, as they aren’t scheduled to pick till the 4th round. Here is a look at the top 5 positions we think the Browns will be targeting when they are on the clock.
1. Defensive End
The team also lost two defensive ends in the offseason and though they weren’t exceptional players the team still needs to get another solid young end to help contribute in their 3-4 defense. The Browns could be looking at a guy like Michigan’s DE/OLB Shawn Crable.
2. Cornerback
With the loss of Bodden the Browns are likely going to need to bring in a player that can step on the field right away and hope to improve the Browns pass defense that finished 25th in the league. While they will likely need to trade up if they want a big time playmaker, they could end up finding a steal late in the draft. Auburn’s Patrick Lee, or LSU’s Ernie Wheelwright could be the guy asked to answer the Browns calling.
3. Outside Linebacker
The team is in need of a guy who can play opposite of Kamerion Wimbley at the outside linebacker spot. The team has Willie MgGinest as of now, buts its hard to tell how much the 36-year-old has left. The team could be looking at Atlanta’s Curtis Johnson to maybe be the guy to take over the spot in the near future.
4. Running Back
It was hard to put running back up here, but without a pick till late in the draft this could wind up being a position the team will look at. They really don’t have a solid guy who can spell Jamaal Lewis, and could spend a 5th or 6th round here. A guy like West Virginia’s Steve Slaton could be a big surprise and wind up being a legit NFL running back.
5. Free Safety
While it was hard to say that this position is less important than running back, we just aren’t sure what they will be able to find in the draft. The team currently has Brodney Pool as the starting free safety, and an option in the draft could be Texas’s Marcus Griffin.
Be sure to continue to check back as we will continue to be bringing you team-by-team draft articles. Also, be sure to check out our first round Mock Draft. Feel free to leave any comments you might have on the draft and each team’s draft needs in our comment box.
Popularity: 3% [?]
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.