Cleveland Browns 2014 NFL Draft Wrap-up

Dec. 15, 2012; Albuquerque, NM, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack offensive lineman Joel Bitonio (70) against the Arizona Wildcats in the 2012 New Mexico Bowl at University Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Overall Draft Evaluation Where they went right: Although I may receive some criticism for this, the Browns did the right decision by taking Johnny Manziel. He gives the Browns fans something that they haven’t had since the cardiac kids: hope of a championship. Now although Hoyer is the starting QB at the moment, Manziel gives the Browns a solid backup and replacement in the case that Hoyer either gets injured or plays under par. The Browns addressed their running back and offensive line issues with Joel Bitonio and Terrance West which should help them score points in 2014. The additions of corners Justin Gilbert and Pierre Desir will most definitely help out the Browns’ passing game this season against offenses in the AFC such as the Broncos, Patriots and Chargers. Once the Browns assure their defensive woes, then they can finally go onto their offensive concerns. Where they went wrong: I believe that every pick of the Browns did in fact have a purpose, however I think they could have placed emphasis on positions in which they need some help. Selecting Desir (while beneficial to the secondary), wasn’t very practical. The Browns should have selected a defensive end or tackle to help out with their 18th-ranked defensive running game. As well the addition of Terrance West, while needed in the Browns’ offense, wasn’t totally smart. The Browns do need a running game (don’t get me wrong), however with the suspension of Josh Gordon looming over the Browns, they should have selected a wide receiver in at least one round. Greg Little was just recently released and Gordon could be sitting out for the rest of the 2014 season. Instead of selecting CB Desir, the Browns could have gone out and taken WRs Ryan Grant or Devin Street. They have been adding random wide receivers from around the league, however lord knows how well they will do in the long run. The Bottom Line: B- The bottom line is this: the Browns got their defense and potential franchise QB. Isn’t that enough to please Cleveland fans for one day?