Browns Rumor: Devin Smith in Play at 19 for Cleveland
The Cleveland Browns have a lot of needs that they hope to fill, both in the NFL Draft and Free Agency. One Browns rumor has the team looking at Devin Smith as a possible pick at #19:
Heading into next week's Combine, Browns open to OSU burner Devin Smith as candidate for No. 19 pick.
— Steve Doerschuk (@sdoerschukREP) February 10, 2015
Many Browns fans know Smith from his years with the Ohio State Buckeyes, and few believe he is a 1st round caliber player. He showed one distinct skill: the long ball. Smith’s ability to stack a corner (shield the corner from the ball), high point and haul in long passes is second to none.
Drafting him at 19, with bigger, more diverse receivers on the board would like frustrate Browns fans.
The 6’1″ 200 pound Massillon native exploded on the scene in the last two years. He only had 33 catches last year but almost eclipsed 1,000 yards, 931. That is an amazing 28 yards per catch average against some solid defenses. The previous year he had more catches, 44, for less yards, 660, as he was asked to run more routes.
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Smith’s measurables at the Combine and his Pro Day will be vital. He is expected to tear up the track in his 40 but GMs could be far more interested in his 3 cone drill which checks his change of direction skills. With that they will have a better idea if he can be a complete receiver or a one trick pony.
The Browns under Kyle Shanahan valued route running over size/speed. Their new offensive system will have some similar values attached. If Smith shows he can do all of those things, someone is going to likely draft him in the 1st round. It looks like the Browns, as of now, have him in that range.
It is the start of silly season, where Browns rumors are bound to fly. When they come from credible sources we will share them with you. This one doesn’t sit great, especially when thinking about the receivers that were passed on last year, but if Ray Farmer and Mike Pettine fall in love with Smith don’t be shocked if the hometown kid joins the roster.
What do you think about this Browns rumor regarding Devin Smith?