Browns Draft: My Current Rankings for Pick #12

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the game at AT&T Stadium. The Buckeyes defeated the Ducks 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

If Marcus Mariota falls all the way to #12 the Browns should pounce. While Mariota is not a “generational” talent he has the foundation to be a good to great quarterback. In the NFL you won’t get anywhere without a quarterback. Based on his short time on the field, issues off the field and rumors he either won’t play next year or wants to be traded, Johnny Manziel isn’t someone the team can count on.

With Josh McCown likely to start next year, Mariota gets the time to develop his pocket presence and understanding of the NFL. Those are the two biggest concerns that fans and analysts have about him. He has the physical size, throwing motion and work ethic that all good quarterbacks have. If he gets time to develop with Kevin O’Connell and John DeFilippo, Mariota should be ready to go starting the 2016 season and be the Browns starting QB for 10 to 15 years barring injuries.

Most Browns fans agree that the team should take him at 12, some do not. If he falls past 6, we wouldn’t be shocked to see the Browns use some of their extra picks, or ’16 picks, to make a small move up to get him. Not an RG3 type trade, but a trade to make sure they get their guy.

Next: #2