2015 NFL Draft: Cleveland Browns Draft Class Recap
By Paul Noel
6th Rd – 189th Overall
Nov 8, 2013; East Hartford, CT, USA; Louisville Cardinals cornerback Charles Gaines (3) intercepts a pass intended for Connecticut Huskies wide receiver Shakim Phillips (8) in the second quarter at Rentschler Field. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Charles Gaines
The Cleveland Browns have used the 189th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft to select defensive back Charles Gaines from Louisville.
The 5-foot-10, 180-pound Gaines had 7 interceptions over the past two seasons.
According to his draft profile at NFL.com, Gaines:
"“Came to Louisville as wide receiver and has unique feel for what’s coming from routes. Outstanding mirror/match work in man coverage. Extremely patient and confident in coverage. Maintains balance and body control in routes. Refuses to overreact or be tilted by head fakes and jab steps within the route. Allows receiver to declare his release before opening from press. Plays on bouncy feet with above-average twitch. Can break off backpedal suddenly and accelerate forward to challenge a throw. Not overly grabby downfield. Reads quarterback, looking for clues to jump throws. Flashes necessary recovery speed. Not fooled by playaction. Instincts above desired mark for cover cornerback.”"
The Browns once again decided to go defense with their first of three sixth-round picks. Gaines joins prior selections nose tackle Danny Shelton (first round), defensive end Nate Orchard (second round) and defensive lineman Xavier Cooper (third round) and Ibraheim Campbell (fourth round) as new defenders for the Browns.
The selection of Gaines is a little surprising, as the Browns are still in need of another tight end, and the Browns already have of the best secondaries in football. However, Cleveland has yet to resign restricted free agent
Tashaun Gipson
, and 2014 first-round pick
Justin Gilbert
disappointed last season. The selection of Gaines could be seen as a depth move, but the Browns already have developing cornerback
Pierre Desir
on the roster. Either way, Gaines brings solid athleticism and ballhawking ability to an already impressive secondary.
Next: 6th Rd - 195th Overall