Karlos Dansby w/ Hooley & Jerod

Added: 3/24/14

Monday, March 24, 2014 - New Browns LB Karlos Dansby joined Hooley & Jerod on ESPN 850 WKNR to talk about why he signed with the Browns and why he thinks he can be a future Hall of Famer.

http://www.espncleveland.com/page.php?page_id=125#

Casserly: Cleveland Browns have most to gain in 2014 NFL Draft

By Bryan Fischer

College Football 24/7 writer

Published: March 21, 2014 at 08:45 p.m.

 

We're still two months away from seeing draft grades appear on NFL.com, but that doesn't mean we can't handicap which clubs will be setting the grading curve going into the 2014 NFL Draft.

 

With such a deep group of prospects available you can bet a number of clubs will enjoy seeing an "A" next to their logo following the draft. That said, there could be one franchise in particular that has enough resources to snag an "A+" on its report card based on what they can get in the draft.

 

"I think it's Cleveland because they have seven draft picks in the first four rounds," NFL Media analyst Charley Casserly said on Path to the Draft. "If I were running the team, I would do something to trade one or two of those picks to next year so you get a surplus there.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap200...2014-nfl-draft

 

More.......

 

Browns notebook: GM Ray Farmer says ‘conversations have already begun’ with potential draft-day trade partners

Published: March 24, 2014 - 08:25 PM

http://www.ohio.com/sports/browns/br...sEnabled=false

 

Browns owner Jimmy Haslam says, ‘I don’t think we’re compelled to pick a quarterback at No. 4’

Published: March 24, 2014 - 08:03 PM

http://www.ohio.com/sports/browns/br...sEnabled=false

 

So I'm watching the NFL Network this morning during the coaches' breakfast at the owners' meetings in Orlando. Turns out they had NFL Network cameras and microphones on six coaches (Bill Belichick, Rex Ryan, John Fox, Mike Tomlin, John Harbaugh and Marvin Lewis). Yep, half were AFC North coaches.

 

While Tomlin, Harbaugh and Lewis were yucking it up with the media, the NFL Network flashed that coach's team's free agency additions and subtractions. It was pretty remarkable to see how much the Browns' division rivals had lost in free agency and how little they had added.

 

Consider, as of March 25, 2014, these AFC North transactions:

 

Baltimore Ravens

 

ADDITIONS

Steve Smith, WR (from Carolina)

Jeremy Zuttah, C (from Tampa Bay)

 

RE-SIGNED

Jacoby Jones, WR

Eugene Monroe, OT

Dennis Pitta, TE

Daryl Smith, LB

Terrell Suggs, LB

 

SUBTRACTIONS

Corey Graham, CB (to Buffalo)

James Ihedigbo, S (to Detroit)

Arthur Jones, DT (to Indianapolis)

Vonta Leach, FB (released)

Jameel McClain, LB (to New York Giants)

 

 

Cincinnati Bengals

 

ADDITIONS

Jason Campbell, QB (from Cleveland)

Marshall Newhouse, OT (from Green Bay)

R.J. Stanford, CB (from Miami)

 

RE-SIGNED

Taylor Mays, S

Mike Pollak, OG

Vincent Rey, LB

Brandon Tate, WR

 

SUBTRACTIONS

Anthony Collins. OT (to Tampa Bay)

Kyle Cook, C (waived)

Brandon Ghee, CB (to San Diego)

James Harrison, LB (waived)

Andrew Hawkins, WR (to Cleveland)

Michael Johnson, DE (to Tampa Bay)

Greg McElroy, QB (retired)

 

 

Cleveland Browns

 

ADDITIONS

Royce Adams, CB (from New York Jets)

Karlos Dansby, LB (from Arizona)

Jim Dray, TE (from Arizona)

Andrew Hawkins, WR (from Cincinnati)

Paul McQuistan, G (from Seattle)

Ben Tate, RB (from Houston)

Isaiah Trufant, CB (from NY Jets)

Donte Whitner, S (from San Francisco)

 

RE-SIGNED

Billy Cundiff, K

 

SUBTRACTIONS

Davone Bess, WR (waived)

Oniel Cousins, G (to Tampa Bay)

Paul Hazel, LB (waived)

D'Qwell Jackson, LB (to Indianapolis)

Shawn Lauvao, G (to Washington)

Brian Tyms, WR (waived)

T.J. Ward, S (to Denver)

 

UNKNOWN

Alex Mack, C

Willis McGahee, RB

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

 

ADDITIONS

Mike Mitchell, S (from Carolina)

Arthur Moats, LB (from Buffalo)

Lance Moore, WR (from New Orleans)

Cam Thomas, DE (from San Diego)

 

RE-SIGNED

Will Allen, S

Heath Miller, TE

Troy Polamalu, S

Cody Wallace, C

Greg Warren, LS

Guy Whimper, OL

Jason Worilds, LB

 

SUBTRACTIONS

Jerricho Cotchery, WR (to Carolina)

Jonathan Dwyer, RB (to Arizona)

Ziggy Hood, DT (to Jacksonville)

David Johnson, TE (to San Diego)

LaMarr Woodley, LB (to Oakland)

Al Woods, DE (to Tennessee)

 

UNKNOWN

Ryan Clark, S

Brett Keisel, DE

 

###

 

I thought Cousins signed with Tampa Bay?

I thought Cousins signed with Tampa Bay?

 

Good catch

 

EDIT: should I put that under "Subtractions" or "Additions"? ;)

Nice summary KJP. Cousins is a definite addition by subtraction for the Browns.

Browns Eyeing 6 Quarterbacks To Rifle Through In 2014

 

Sports News in Brief • Sports • NFL Football • ISSUE 50•12 • Mar 24, 2014

 

CLEVELAND —

 

In an effort to dispel uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine confirmed Monday that the team is currently monitoring six players to rifle through in rapid succession next season. “The competition for that starting spot is wide open right now, so we plan on blowing through at least a half dozen options at quarterback during the course of the regular season,” said Pettine, adding that following training camp and preseason, the team will select a new play caller to be the face of the franchise, only to bench him in week five after a string of subpar performances. “As head coach, I just have to go with the guy who gives us the best chance to win. Then I’ll replace him with someone else when he doesn’t come through, and we’ll repeat that process over and over again until we finally land on some washed-up veteran who will finish out our final few meaningless games.”

 

Pettine also told reporters that quarterback Brian Hoyer is making good progress in his recovery from a torn ACL last season, making him a prime candidate to be traded for a pick in the 2015 draft

 

http://goo.gl/o5BuQ8

 

 

 

 

^LOL

Chris Mortensen ‏@mortreport  2m

Browns so tricky they bypassed another Pro Day at Texas A&M. Ignoring every possible evaluation tool in a year of their most critical draft

 

Yet, Josh Gordon said Farmer told him the Browns are taking a QB at #4 (thanks Josh). So if they're taking a QB, why not attend a pro day? I realize they're scripted and private workouts aren't, but 30 teams showed up (only Browns and Bears didn't) it still has value....

 

Josh Gordon thinks Browns take QB

March 27, 2014

PAT MCMANAMON via ESPN

 

Josh Gordon is "pretty sure" the Cleveland Browns will select a quarterback with the fourth pick in the draft, but he's not sure which one.

 

At the same time, the Browns' standout wide receiver, speaking on "SportsCenter" on Thursday, says the pick is "up in the air." He also quipped that asking him whom the Browns should draft first was "putting me in a position to incriminate myself."

 

http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/josh-gordon-thinks-browns-qb/story?id=23083625

A couple more.....

 

Ian Rapoport ‏@RapSheet 2h Me: “I was interested you guys haven’t been at QB pro days.” #Browns GM Ray Farmer: “Are you sure I wasn’t? How do you know?” Big smile.

 

And a regular at BarkingHard who reports player transactions about 30-60 minutes before they're announced says Browns are curious about Manziel but definitely have reservations. Believe Bortles will be gone by #4 pick. The guy they'd consider most seriously at #4 is Bridgewater. Other quarterbacks they like are Carr, Mettenberger, and Tom Savage. All big arms. Savage has been getting more and more attention lately from draftnicks. There's also lots of talk about not taking a QB at #4 and not needing to take Watkins there with the WR depth in this draft. Browns love tackles Matthews and Robinson plus LB Mack.

 

The person who reported that was pissed. He said stop screwing around and get your damn QB!

Not exactly an earth-shattering insight, but BH reports "WR is not on the Browns list at #4. Very deep draft at WR, more likely to wait until 35 or even top of 3rd to find Gordon's sidekick. Some crazy talent will be around with that early 3rd round pick."

 

It's probable the Browns will then snag their #2 CB at the 26th pick. They tried a number of times to get a #2 CB in FA but would have had to pay dearly for it. Makes more sense to draft the CB. They'll be able to get their #2 outside WR at the 35th pick, or in the third round. They may go after an ILB at 35.

 

So far this offseason, Browns only holes appear to be QB, #2 CB, #2 WR (if they don't sign DeSean Jackson!) and ILB of the future. The rest of their extra draft picks will be used to add depth.

I still think they need another G (or OT if they plan to move Schwartz inside).

I still think they need another G (or OT if they plan to move Schwartz inside).

 

McQuistain can play and has played anywhere on the line. He can start at RG or at RT where he played in all 16 games for the Raiders. If McQuistain plays RT, Schwartz may be moved to RG. If not, McQuistain will probably start at RG.

 

Regardless, signing McQuistain takes the pressure off the Browns to draft a potential staring OL. I think it's probable they'll pick one up in the third or fourth rounds which, in this draft, could net a quality OL who could compete for a starting job this year. I think it's a want, but not a need. It's certainly not a "hole."

I was talking about the left side.  I'm not sure about Greco in the zone scheme and have never been a big Pinkston fan.    Both might be better used as our utility linemen.

Why again did the Cleveland Browns skip Johnny Manziel's pro day ?

https://m.yahoo.com/w/legobpengine/sports/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/why-again-did-the-cleveland-browns-skip-johnny-manziel-s-pro-day-194205117.html?orig_host_hdr=sports.yahoo.com&.intl=us&.lang=en-US

More rumblings about the Browns maximizing this draft by mortgaging the next. The Browns might be willing to move around using some of their 10 picks in 2014 and a player like Rubin, and/or trading a high pick in 2015.

 

How about having five picks in the first 50? Right now they've got three.

 

If they can pull it off, they can get their QB Of The Future, a #2 CB, #2 WR, ILB, and perhaps a guard like Mewhort. Most of the zone blocking help can be had by whatever picks they retain in rounds 3-5.

 

Two teams who may be willing to trade are San Francisco and St. Louis. Keep an eye on this.

 

Cleveland Browns reportedly "going hard'' after DeSean Jackson

 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Browns are "going hard'' after former Eagles receiver DeSean Jackson, according to a television station in Washington, D.C.

 

NBC Washington's Diana Russini reported Tuesday that the Browns have made a strong offer for the three-time Pro Bowl receiver, who's currently visiting the Redskins.

 

The Browns like Jackson as a player and were prepared to do their homework on him when he was released by the Eagles on Friday, just as they would any top-notch player. If they determined Jackson could help them and fit into the team structure, they were prepared to make a pitch.

 

http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2014/04/cleveland_browns_reportedly_go.html#incart_flyout_sports

So much for that. He signed a three-year deal with Washington. However, the thought of having two pro bowl receivers on the outside made my mouth water. Now I hope the Browns do whatever they can to get a top-notch WR in the draft AND a QB of the future.

So much for that. He signed a three-year deal with Washington. However, the thought of having two pro bowl receivers on the outside made my mouth water. Now I hope the Browns do whatever they can to get a top-notch WR in the draft AND a QB of the future.

 

My source, who is quite close to many of the mid-level people in Berea, says they never seriously pursued Jackson.  He says they are likely to go for Watkins if he is there at 4, and think they can also get Bridgewater.

 

Another source, in a different direction entirely, says Jackson doesn't merely associate with Crips, he is believed by law enforcement to be a full member.

Another source, in a different direction entirely, says Jackson doesn't merely associate with Crips, he is believed by law enforcement to be a full member.

 

I'm no expert on gangs, but he flashed the Crips sign in photos. I thought that if you flashed a gang sign and you weren't a member, you would get a beat-down, if not worse.

 

Not surprised Jackson wanted to go Washington so he could play against Philly twice a year. At worst, he was considering Oakland because it would take him back home to the West Coast.

 

Ask your buddy about rumors of the Browns possibly trading their second first-round pick (#26) and one each of their third- and fourth-rounders to move up in the first round. There's also rumors of the Browns including their first-round pick in other trade scenarios, but that the Browns would want to move into the top-15 or even top-10 in that scenario. In others, I'm hearing the Browns ultimate goal is TWO top-10 picks, their current #4 and another via trade.

Browns to meet with FA wideout Nate Burleson on Saturday

http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2014/04/report_veteran_receiver_nate_b.html

Browns to meet with FA wideout Nate Burleson on Saturday

http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2014/04/report_veteran_receiver_nate_b.html

 

Vivid memories of him taunting the dawg pound in a preseason game a few years back.

Another source, in a different direction entirely, says Jackson doesn't merely associate with Crips, he is believed by law enforcement to be a full member.

 

I'm no expert on gangs, but he flashed the Crips sign in photos. I thought that if you flashed a gang sign and you weren't a member, you would get a beat-down, if not worse.

 

Not surprised Jackson wanted to go Washington so he could play against Philly twice a year. At worst, he was considering Oakland because it would take him back home to the West Coast.

 

Ask your buddy about rumors of the Browns possibly trading their second first-round pick (#26) and one each of their third- and fourth-rounders to move up in the first round. There's also rumors of the Browns including their first-round pick in other trade scenarios, but that the Browns would want to move into the top-15 or even top-10 in that scenario. In others, I'm hearing the Browns ultimate goal is TWO top-10 picks, their current #4 and another via trade.

 

Their goal is whatever it takes to land Bridgewater in addition to Watkins (though the 2 OTs are still getting strong consideration and indeed are getting more likely), who would go at the #4.  All those ideas are possible.  My guess is the trade, if any, will happen on draft day after Manziel is taken.

 

Remembering how happy we were when they landed both Thomas and Quinn, I have reservations.

I hope they don't take OL with their first pick. This draft has a ton of good OL. It's so deep we can probably pick up a first-year starter in the third round -- especially for the zone-blocking schemes Shanahan runs.

 

I also was happy when Thomas and Quinn were taken. I would have been happier if BOTH had panned out. Imagine how much better life would be today. I truly believe the Browns would have done no worse than 7-9 last year if we had a quality, healthy quarterback. If we had a running back as well, I think we would have gone 9-7 or better. It still blows me away that the 2013 Browns had more pro-bowlers than wins.

 

But if things happen for a reason, then last season happened so we could get rid of Banner and Lombardi and get Farmer instead. I'll miss Chud, but I have high hopes for Pettine.

An interesting overview of what the Browns are looking for in their QB to draft (from an astute observer). These all appear to be accurate clues...

 

1. They are looking for a guy with the 'it' factor

2. They want an all weather guy (likely big hands and durable)

3. They feel they can wait for him to start due to Hoyer

4. That likely want a guy who can utilize Gordon's strength, so big arm

5. Zone-blocking scheme means mobile is on the table

 

To me, this rules out Bridgewater. Manziel is an option. But the above suggests either Bortles or Carr. They may also select two QBs, with a project coming in a mid- to late-round......

 

Also some imbedded video from NFL Network....

 

Cleveland Browns hold private workout with Jimmy Garoppolo

By Bryan Fischer

College Football 24/7 writer

Published: April 4, 2014 at 06:00 p.m. Updated: April 4, 2014 at 08:47 p.m.

 

Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon can't decide if he wants the team to draft Johnny Manziel or Teddy Bridgewater, but perhaps there is another name he should start to consider.

 

According to Cleveland.com, the team held a private workout with Eastern Illinois quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo on Friday.

 

While most of the scuttlebutt on the Browns' draft plans has been about one of the top four quarterbacks in the 2014 NFL Draft -- Manziel, Bridgewater, Blake Bortles and Derek Carr -- Garoppolo is likely in the mix for the team, as well.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000339531/article/cleveland-browns-hold-private-workout-with-qb-jimmy-garoppolo

One more tonight. I think this is an excellent article and a VERY plausible scenario.....

 

2014 NFL Draft: Cleveland Browns Could be Wheeling and Dealing in the First Round

By Garrett Mayers Updated: April 4, 2014

 

Ray Farmer and the Cleveland Browns sit in an awkward position with the 4th pick of the NFL Draft. Now, only they know what they want to do, but the speculations surely has created plenty of buzz.

 

It seems the majority of people want the Browns to take Clemson wide receiver Sammy Watkins. Other names being thrown in the hat are South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, Buffalo line backer Khalil Mack, Auburn offense tackle Greg Robinson and obviously, one of the big four quarterbacks.

 

The issue that comes about is the fact that as of now there doesn’t seem to be a sense of the Browns loving any one of those individuals. Farmer has done an excellent job of keeping things close to his chest. In fact, he is keeping things so close to his chest, it is actually creating concern.

 

What not enough people are talking about is that the Browns are in a prime position to trade down out of the 4th pick. The names mentioned above are prime targets for other teams and could create a great trade partner come May.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.buckeyestatesports.com/2014-nfl-draft-cleveland-browns-could-be-wheeling-and-dealing-in-the-first-round/

“Growing sentiment” that Browns could nab Carr at No. 4

April 6, 2014 by Scott Sargent 7

 

Buried at the bottom of a glowing column about Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr from ESPN.com’s Ashley Fox is a report that the “growing sentiment” throughout the NFL is that the Cleveland Browns are not just fond of the precise passer, but could use the fourth-overall selection in the 2014 NFL Draft to obtain him.

 

Carr is gaining steam because, unlike Manziel, Bortles and Eastern Illinois’ Jimmy Garoppolo, he ran a pro-style offense for a year in college. As a redshirt sophomore in 2011, Carr was a starter for then-Fresno State coach Pat Hill. He learned the skills a quarterback needs at the next level: timing, footwork, and accuracy, among them. He threw vertical routes with precision and displayed a strong arm. […]

 

Which is why there’s growing sentiment around the league that Cleveland could decide that Carr is its guy and use the fourth overall pick on him despite owning three picks in the top 35, including No. 26 overall.

 

At the NFL owners meeting last week, new Browns coach Mike Pettine talked about the positive attributes Bortles, Manziel, Bridgewater and Carr possess. He said Bortles has all the measurables, Bridgewater is “very cerebral” and Manziel is a “gifted playmaker.” Pettine said Carr was “the best natural thrower as far as arm strength … in the draft.”

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.waitingfornextyear.com/2014/04/nfl-draft-news-rumors-derek-carr-cleveland-browns/

Just tell him to get his pizzas delivered from now on!

 

WR Nate Burleson to join Browns

Updated: April 6, 2014, 10:02 PM ET

ESPN.com news services

 

The Cleveland Browns have reached an agreement with free-agent wide receiver Nate Burleson on a one-year deal, a source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

 

Burleson, who was released by the Detroit Lions in a salary cap move, finished his 11th NFL season in 2013, catching 39 passes for 461 yards and a touchdown in nine games for the Lions. He had one of the highest reception rates in the NFL, catching 73.6 percent of the passes thrown to him by Matthew Stafford.

 

He has played in 135 regular season games between Minnesota, Seattle and Detroit, catching 457 passes for 5,630 yards and 43 touchdowns after being a third round pick of Minnesota in 2003 out of Nevada.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/10740964/nate-burleson-cleveland-browns-agree-1-year-deal

What I hear is the Burleson signing neither makes a Watkins signing more or less likely.  He competes with Hawkins if anyone.  My own take is it makes it slightly more likely they grab one of the OTs at 4. 

 

Either way, they are likely to go QB later on, but like Carr almost as much as they like Bridgewater and they may become interchangeable as they get closer to draft day.  Another possibility, even at the 35, is Mettenberger, from LSU.

I agree. Burleson is there to not just to catch passes but also provide some leadership by example to the young WRs which will include whomever we select in the draft. Bess was brought in by Banner-bardi to be that guy but it's hard for screwed up people to identify non-screwed up people.

So it looks as if Mack is going to get the money he wants from Jacksonville.  Something like $9mill per year with $20mill+ in guaranteed money.  I think the Browns will match.  It is a large contract and the largest for a center, but not all that out of whack with what the top centers are getting these days.  Center has become a much more important position in the modern NFL.  I also don't buy ESPN's 'rumors' about Mack wanting out of Cleveland.  If he wanted out, he would've signed the one year tender and then would've been free to go wherever he wanted next summer.  By doing this, he is exposing himself to being locked up as a Brown for a loooooong time.

That's more ESPN beating on Cleveland because it's always easier to beat on someone when they're down. Cowards.

 

Fact is, it doesn't matter whether Mack wants to be here or not. If the Browns match Jacksonville's contract, Mack plays here. He's a professional and will play up to his contract.

 

However -- I don't think any center is worth $9 million. The Browns could trade a fourth-round pick and get a backup center from a team with a top-ranked offensive line like Philadelphia's, and he could start for the Browns and save a ton of money. And I don't think the drop off would be that great.

Idk.  It's a ton of money (albeit only slightly more than Ryan Kahlil received from Carolina), but the Browns have it and obviously feel he's worth $9mill.  They gave him a $10mill+ offer sheet.  It's much more perplexing to me why Jax would offer that much money.  I think there are several factors which increase Mack's value to our team.  (1) He's extremely durable and doesn't miss games.  (2) Continuity might be the most important factor in an offensive line's success.  (3) In the modern NFL, the center is now responsible for calling out all of the blitzes and blocking schemes..... he is somewhat the QB of the offensive line.  (4) With the league trending more and more towards a passing game, it is that much more important you have a middle of the line that doesn't allow the pocket to collapse (think back to the Tim Couch days).  (5) Mack is IDEAL for the zone-blocking scheme due to his athleticism and ability to be effective at the second level of the defense.

That didn't take long....

 

Mary Kay Cabot ‏@MaryKayCabot  1m

#browns matching #jaguars 5 year $42 million offer sheet for Alex Mack per report http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2014/04/cleveland_browns_jaguars_five-.html …

 

BTW....

 

Cleveland Browns' gamble to retain Pro Bowl center Alex Mack appears to be a brilliant move

http://www.crainscleveland.com/artic...x-mack-appears

I like this guy. Pettine may be the coach we've been looking for.....

 

Cleveland Browns Head Coach Mike Pettine has clear vision to build team into winners

Posted Apr 10, 2014

Kevin Jones

Staff Writer

 

Coach Mike Pettine lays out the definition of what it means to “Play Like a Brown.”

 

You’ve probably heard the phrase Play like a Brown from Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine.

 

And let me notify you up front: it’s not some bogus, coach-speak, cliché motto plastered on the walls in Berea. It’s a well thought out master plan I had the liberty of exploring with Pettine during a sit-down conversation in his office.

 

The first part of Play Like a Brown has virtually nothing to with football. It’s a shift in mentality.

 

“People from the outside want to characterize us as the same old Browns, and let them do so,” said Pettine. “I tell our team, ‘We are breaking off the rearview mirror.’ Acknowledge the history is there, but that’s not us.”

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/article-1/Cleveland-Browns-Head-Coach-Mike-Pettine-has-clear-vision-to-build-team-into-winners/bbcd7b06-d842-4431-8ea9-b84cf2d1fe3e

Saw the movie Draft Day today. Loved it. If I was a football fan in another city, I think I still would have enjoyed it. But as a Browns fan, a couple scenes brought tears to my eyes. I won't say why except that my father died the day after Christmas, 2013. So this hit even closer to home for me.

 

I encourage every Clevelander to see this movie. And it is a must-see for a Browns fan.

 

In fact, there was a Browns fan and former Clevelander from Washington DC who came up to see the movie where I saw it (Valley View Cinemark). This already was his fourth time seeing the movie! Ironically, he left Cleveland 29 years ago and is returning this summer to live downtown.

Bridgewater, Browns and those pre-draft deceptions

By KJPrendergast  @KennyPeepers on Apr 13 2014, 10:18a

 

Take a moment out of your busy day and do a Google search. Use the search terms "Teddy Bridgewater, private workouts" and, depending on when you do the search, you'll probably come up with something interesting. I came up with lots of results saying he worked out for "several" teams and that his performances in these workouts were "shaky."

 

But is this accurate? In the myriad of pre-draft deceptions, it's possible this may be one of the most audacious seen thus far. And considering who has the most to benefit from it, I'd say the Cleveland Browns could be at the heart of it.

 

Considering he's been in charge of the Browns' personnel moves since only Feb. 11 when he was hired as GM, we don't know a lot about Ray Farmer or how what he will do in this draft. That's a weapon he can use only once.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/4/13/5610442/bridgewater-browns-and-those-pre-draft-deceptions

I think the Browns chatter about Carr is a big ol' smokescreen. At least I hope it is. Look at his accuracy downfield against poor competition at Fresno State. The Browns best offensive weapon is Josh Gordon who thrives on the deep ball. Carr would not be the best QB to take advantage of this weapon.....

 

From scout.com

 

Kiper had the Browns taking Johnny MF'in Football in the mock draft he released today

More love posted at OBR and Scout

 

GORDON SAYS PLAYERS HAVE WIN NOW ATTITUDE

Fred Greetham

OBR Senior Browns Reporter

 

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Josh Gordon senses a change in the wind with the Browns -- and it's blowing in a positive direction.

 

He feels the offseason changes in the front office have instilled a new sense of urgency in Berea and the Browns are poised to win sooner than later.

 

"We know we don't have time to rebuild and it's time to go right now," Gordon said. "Guys are realizing that and that it's now or never and that's the way we're approaching it and hoping for it to happen a lot quicker this year."

 

Gordon, who just turned 23 last Sunday, said the team has received the message by bringing in veterans like Karlos Dansby, Donte Whitner, Nate Burleson, Ben Tate, among others.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.scout.com/2/1394719.html

 

I think the Browns chatter about Carr is a big ol' smokescreen. At least I hope it is. Look at his accuracy downfield against poor competition at Fresno State. The Browns best offensive weapon is Josh Gordon who thrives on the deep ball. Carr would not be the best QB to take advantage of this weapon.....

 

From scout.com

 

Sooooo basically if you want that type of QB the best bet is drafting Johnny Football, uh I pass please.

Manziel: best QB in the draft. For some reason he's gotten the rap that he doesn't or can't throw from the pocket. Fact is, his completion percentage in the pocket was 73% -- higher than any other BCS QB. He also left the pocket on 76% of plays when he was under pressure, again higher than any other QB and his completion percentage suffered (44%) when scrambling. http://espn.go.com/blog/statsinfo/tag/_/name/johnny-manziel  Mobile QBs tend to run a lot more when they're young because they don't yet know any better how to fix broken plays. With more experience and discipline, they stay in the pocket more often. What I like about Manziel is his leadership on the field, his will to win, his fire and his ability. He has the "it" factor.

 

Having said all that -- something tells me the Browns will draft either Manziel or Bridgewater. Somebody is trying to knock their prices down and I think the Browns are the ones most likely responsible (at least for Bridgewater, see my article above). Manziel's stock is rising, and the word is that Pettine and Shanahan like Manziel, but the scouts like Sammy Watkins.

The roller-coaster of Bridgewater's draft stock reminds me of Aaron Rogers.  At the close of the season, Rogers was projected as a Top 3 pick, possibly even the #1 overall.  He had that status throughout his final year in college.  Then something happened in the pre-draft process which caused him to fall to the mid-20's right into Green Bay's lap.  I'm not a huge Teddy fan, but I also believe that your draft board should not change all that much from the end of the season up until the draft based on off-the-field evaluations.

I am very uncomfortable doing this, and I do it with the stipulation that I don't endorse this draft pick. But based on my reading of the tea leaves (at which I stink), I think the Browns are going to pick Teddy Bridgewater.

 

Again, this is not my choice. I prefer Manziel. So here's why I think the Browns are picking Bridgewater....

 

1. They want to win now. The Browns' activism in free agency and going after players who have played for winning teams and have a strong locker room presence shows they want to win NOW. They aren't willing to wait for a QB to develop.  I think that leaves out every QB in the draft except for Bridgewater and possibly Manziel. Everyone else, including Bortles and Carr, are projects. Even with Manziel there is as much to love from Manziel's game as there is left to fix. Bridgewater may be a better player. Maybe not. But he was prepared better in college for the pros. Consider his mechanics and performance in the 2013 Russell Athletic Bowl:

 

2. "Buzz" is not a draft-day indicator. I am reminded of LaDanian Tomlinson who, on the NFL Network, said there were many teams who worked him out, interviewed and inquired about him before he was drafted fifth overall in 2001. One team that didn't utter a peep to Tomlinson was the San Diego Chargers -- the team that drafted him. After Tomlinson said that, other players on the set also said they were drafted by teams that showed the least pre-draft interest in them. So the fact that we're not hearing a lot of buzz about the Browns picking Bridgewater doesn't necessarily mean anything.

 

3. Bridgewater is falling -- by design. Sure, Bridgewater's fall was worsened by his pro day, but someone is spreading garbage information about him. And I think the Browns hands are all over it. http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/4/13/5610442/bridgewater-browns-and-those-pre-draft-deceptions I haven't seen so much bad information out there about other high profile players, least of all those who the Browns may be interested in. I just find it ironic that such a "pro-ready QB" has fallen far enough on many draft boards to all but guarantee that the Browns will be able to draft him when their first turn comes up. That, I believe, is the byproduct of a multi-pronged draft strategy.

 

Like I said, I suck at predicting the future and hate when others do it. So I don't like doing it myself. So we'll see how wrong am I on Draft Day.

Hot rumor: Browns trade their #4 overall pick to Tampa Bay for their 7th overall and their 2nd-round pick. They would still be able to get a top QB at 7 (Carr, Bridgewater, maybe even Manziel but that's less likely). Then they own the rest of the draft. They keep their #26 overall, and now have two picks in the 2nd, two in the 3rd, and two in the 4th.

 

They could keep the two 2nds or package one of them and possibly their 26th to move up in the 1st round from 26, possible to move ahead of the Steelers and Ravens to get CB Kyle Fuller.

Don't like it due to the risk of missing out on Sammy Watkins. I'd rather have him at 4 over a qb because a passing attack as deadly as that would make the most average QB look like a pro bowler

I could see a trade down, then take a top CB or RT, then possibly a QB with the 2nd 1st round pick.  No QB in this draft will help them win "now", especially with a shaky RT and two atrocious G's, and the Browns pass D caved in 3-4 times last season, giving up 4th Qtr leads.  Carr seems like the most polished QB in the draft, but his talent just seems underwhelming.

 

Wouldn't surprise me either to see this type of trade, then CB, OG, then QB in that order.

Don't like it due to the risk of missing out on Sammy Watkins. I'd rather have him at 4 over a qb because a passing attack as deadly as that would make the most average QB look like a pro bowler

 

I would be surprised if they drafted Watkins. The three greatest needs of this team is QB, CB, ILB and more depth at WR, RB, S and OL. This draft is loaded with WRs and OLs. A WR that would have been taken in the first round in past drafts can probably be taken in the second round this year. And an OL that would have been taken in the second round (and won a starting spot) in past years can probably be taken in the third round this year. Plus, I'm not worried about our OL. Schwartz had a great rookie year but a sub-par sophomore year due to injury -- he's healthy again -- as is Jason Pinkston and Chris Faulk. If you don't recall the name Chris Faulk, brush up on him. If he had come out of LSU before his 2012 injury, Faulk would have been a high draft choice. Plus the Browns added free agent Paul McQuistan who can (and has) play anywhere on the line. Plus we already have two pro-bowlers on the line, including a future hall-of-famer at the all-important LT position. OL is not a position of need.

 

We need a #2 corner. We made several attempts to land one in free agency but weren't successful. Pettine recently commented that you draft players who are difficult to get via free agency. He said QB was the obvious position, but so is CB and this offseason bore that out. And while Buster Skrine had a breakout year at the #2 corner spot last year, there isn't much behind him to play nickel or backup, or to compete for a starting position. There are a number of quality corners in this draft, but the talent falls off quickly after the first 3-4 top-ranked players. Thus it may be smart to use the #26 pick on a CB and save the WR to the second round.

 

The top ILB in the draft, Alabama's CJ Mosley, will probably be taken in the middle of the first round. He will be gone before we pick at #26. The next most highly ranked ILB in the draft is Big 10 defensive player of the year Chris Borland from Wisconsin. Some project him to be taken in the second round but he may fall to the third because so many WRs will likely be taken in the second. If so, the Browns might be able to get him with our first third-round pick. We need help as Craig Robertson, although fast, has trouble wrapping up on tackles and Karlos Dansby, although a 2013 pro-bowler, is under contract for only two years and is 32 years old. Tank Carder also is on the roster. Time to add depth and groom replacements at ILB.

 

Given the injury histories of RBs Ben Tate and Dion Lewis, drafting more depth here would be a good idea. Edwin Baker showed some late-season flashes but is still unproven.

 

Adding some depth at safety would be wise, too. Donte Whitner and Tashaun Gipson are quality starters but I would love to see someone on the roster who can challenge Gipson.

 

Oh, and there's some who believe the Browns will draft two quarterbacks this year. If so, my suggestion for the second QB is a prospect from NCU named Bryn Renner. He had a down season in 2013 due to injury and the loss of several of his weapons in the prior offseason. He isn't a pure pocket passer as some suggest. I've seen him rollout well and throw, or tuck it up and run when nothing is there. He has good throwing mechanics and puts zip on the ball. He is very underrated, IMHO.

Draft week is when I like to tune out all the "buzz" and "hot rumors" which are rarely correct and more often than not smokescreens.... but do generate a lot of business for the media.  Forget about the hype.  Just take an objective look at things and I think this year's draft is not all that hard to figure out for the Browns.  They are at #4.  There is a largely undisputed consensus, and has been for some time, that there are 4-5 'can't miss' top-tier prospects in this draft.  Clowney, Mack, Watkins, Robinson, and (depending on who you ask) Matthews.  If we stay at #4, we take one of those guys.  I think everyone has Clowney on top, no matter what they say.  I myself would rate them exactly in the above order.  The Browns could probably be enticed to trade back a few spots with Atlanta or Tampa Bay, but I would demand a King's ransom because you are passing up the opportunity to take one of those 5.

 

No QB in this draft will help them win "now", especially with a shaky RT and two atrocious G's, and the Browns pass D caved in 3-4 times last season, giving up 4th Qtr leads. 

 

Are you forgetting the PQ signing?  I would at least hesitate to call him atrocious until we see him play with our unit.  We also don't know whether he will play G with Schwartz staying at RT, or whether he will play RT, with Schwartz moving to G.  The competition between Pinkston and Greco should also be healthy.

Draft week is when I like to tune out all the "buzz" and "hot rumors" which are rarely correct and more often than not smokescreens.... but do generate a lot of business for the media.  Forget about the hype.  Just take an objective look at things and I think this year's draft is not all that hard to figure out for the Browns.  They are at #4.  There is a largely undisputed consensus, and has been for some time, that there are 4-5 'can't miss' top-tier prospects in this draft.  Clowney, Mack, Watkins, Robinson, and (depending on who you ask) Matthews.  If we stay at #4, we take one of those guys.  I think everyone has Clowney on top, no matter what they say.  I myself would rate them exactly in the above order.  The Browns could probably be enticed to trade back a few spots with Atlanta or Tampa Bay, but I would demand a King's ransom because you are passing up the opportunity to take one of those 5.

 

I strongly expect the Browns will move around within this draft. And Tampa Bay wants to move up -- although they also want to move statue Mike Glennon (no thanks). So I'm all ears on who/what could be moved. Believe me, I've read and written articles about so many potential moves and smokescreens for months now. But one thing to keep in mind is that the mock drafts that come out in the week before the draft tend to be the most reliable. A lot of them seem to have the Browns taking the best player available at #4 and then going QB at #26.

 

Are you forgetting the PQ signing?  I would at least hesitate to call him atrocious until we see him play with our unit.  We also don't know whether he will play G with Schwartz staying at RT, or whether he will play RT, with Schwartz moving to G.  The competition between Pinkston and Greco should also be healthy.

 

Who is PQ? Do you mean Paul McQuistan?