Dueling 2015 NFL Mock Drafts
Sep 13, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Amari Cooper (9) carries for a touchdown against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles during the first quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
In back to back posts we will cover two things that the Cleveland Browns can have a dramatic impact on by their play on the field. First we will look at Dueling CBS Sports 2015 NFL Mock Drafts then ESPN’s NFL Power Rankings.
First a quick disclaimer:
"The selection order for this mock draft is based on the projected outcome of the 2014 NFL season by the NFLDraftScout.com staff."
So don’t get mad at either of them for where they placed the Browns. The Browns will have a chance to greatly impact this spot based on their play on the field.
We start with Dane Brugler’s draft and on the next page will hit Rob Rang’s.
"6. CLEVELAND BROWNS (1-1) Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford: The Browns strongly considered an offensive tackle with their top-10 pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and will probably again in 2015 if Mitchell Schwartz doesn’t secure his grasp on the starting right tackle spot. Although he still needs to iron out several inconsistencies, Peat has been blessed with outstanding natural tools and his high ceiling will see him come off the board early."
With their first pick, their own, Brugler has the Browns creating a dominate offensive line. Even if Schwartz doesn’t struggle, adding a top flight tackle could create a dominate force for the Browns. At some point the Browns also have to plan for life after Joe Thomas. Peat is that type of player. While many will call for a receiver here this draft doesn’t have the top end guys that would make a Top 10 pick worth it. The better the Browns are the more likely they are to use their top pick on a receiver, safety or linebacker, positions that reach better value later in the draft than up top.
"11. CLEVELAND BROWNS (FROM BUFFALO) (1-1) Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Regardless of who is at quarterback, the Browns have to get stronger at the wide receiver position, especially on the outside where Josh Gordon‘s absence has left a glaring hole. Cooper isn’t an elite size/speed prospect, but he plays fast with the natural receiving characteristics needed to dangerous threat in the NFL. Cooper at the X, Andrew Hawkins at the Y and Gordon at the Z would give Cleveland an impressive trio next season."
Even with the Bills surprising 2 – 0 start they are still projected at #11. Here Brugler has the Browns adding a perfect fit receiver. Comparable to Marqise Lee more than Julio Jones, Cooper’s ability to run great routes and solid hands would be an ideal fit with the returning Gordon. Receivers tend to take some time to develop, unless you use them on limited routes like the Bills have with Sammy Watkins. Cooper as the third or fourth option would be given time to develop.
With Brugler’s draft the Browns would have turned a good, run dominate offense into one that could be a Top 10 level with quality quarterback play. The QB position is one that could be a target depending on where the Browns are drafting. If Brian Hoyer looks good but Johnny Manziel doesn’t progress it is possible the Browns draft a QB high. If Manziel looks good and either the Browns or Bills pick is high the Browns could capitalize and get a RG3 type package from a team looking to move up. Now on to Rang’s draft on the next page (click “Next” below or use your keyboards right arrow key to flip over).