The Cleveland Browns could look to upgrade the offense early in the NFL Draft, and a former Ohio State Buckeye could be an option.
It appears that the Cleveland Browns will be prioritizing their needs on the defensive end in this year’s draft. However, there are gaps in the offense as well that need to be addressed.
The only position group looking somewhat solidified at this point is the offensive line, which was addressed in free agency. The offensive backfield on the other hand has a plethora of voids to be filled. Despite the obvious need for a quarterback, depth at the running back and wide receiver positions need to be dealt with as well.
Let’s take a look at the running backs first. Currently the Browns have Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson. Crowell did an above-average job last year rushing for 952 yards and seven touchdowns on only 198 carries.
When called upon, Johnson filled in nicely as a complement to Crowell as well. Trailing early and often is not conducive when trying to enact a strong run game and unfortunately the Browns trailed often in 2016.
As for the receiving corps, it is much less established. With the loss of Terrelle Pryor to free agency and the release of Andrew Hawkins, there isn’t much production coming back for 2017. Corey Coleman will return after a strong rookie campaign and free agent signee Kenny Britt will also be coming on board. Outside of them, the cupboards are bare.
Filling needs at both of these positions would be ideal. Ohio State’s Curtis Samuel is a guy who can cover both bases at once. As a do-everything man in college, Samuel moved back and forth seamlessly between positions as a rusher and receiver.
Curtis Samuel made his living in college as a master of utility. In 2016, he was the only player in college football to amass more than 700 yards receiving as well as 700 yards rushing. On top of the offensive output, he was effective in the return game.
Over three seasons at Ohio State, Samuel racked up an astounding 2,535 all-purpose yards. That kind of all-around skill can be valuable to a team that needs rookies to contribute right away.
Strengths: Samuel is as dynamic of an athlete as they come. At the combine he posted a time of 4.31 in the 40 yard dash, placing second only to the record-breaking time of John Ross. His elusive speed is part of the reason scouts are optimistic about his transition into an NFL receiver.
Lance Zierlein at NFL.com had this to say about Samuel:
"Has crisp feet for sudden change of direction. Long-strider with deep speed to challenge press coverage over the top…Can ramp it back up to top gear quickly after tapping his brakes in space. At his best when matched up in open space. Gets faster and more dangerous as the play unfolds…Moveable matchup piece."
Weaknesses: Samuel may be one of the fastest players in the draft but he is still rather unpolished. While versatility is one of his strengths, evaluators also consider it to be a weakness. The constant position swapping in college made it difficult for him to master one position. He is good at many things but not elite at any given one.
On weaknesses Zierlein had this to say:
"Needs to work on release against press. Could get hung up off the line and into his routes by athletic, press-cover slot men. Has unnatural hands that fight the throw. Will default to body catches. Didn’t have as many “pro-style” touches as teams would like…Average ball-tracking and adjustments to poor throws. Wasn’t asked to handle blocking responsibilities very often."
The overlying concern is how to use his skill set. Samuel is versatile but draft picks are typically reserved for guys with a bread and butter competency in some facet of the game. Samuel is not that guy.
When it comes to offensive needs, the Browns need to pick up receiver help as well as a third running back to add into the rotation. Curtis Samuel can immediately impact both of these positions as well as add a spark in the return game.
Many evaluators want to pigeonhole Samuel at just one position. This is not wise. Finding a way to move him around to create mismatches in coverage is the best way to fully utilize his skill set.
Expectations are for Samuel to be a second to third-round pick, although there is always a possibility of a slide. The Browns coincidentally have an abundance of mid-round picks.
Picks No. 52 or 65 could be good spots to pick up some offensive help depending on how the day goes. The Browns may even be able to get Samuel with the first pick in the fourth round if things work out their way.
Curtis Samuel can come in and contribute immediately. It is up to the Browns to give him that opportunity. Not to mention, Browns fans would be pleased to have a Ohio State Buckeye joining the roster. He should have a special place in the hearts of Ohioans after making plays like this one.
Next: Malik Hooker draft profile
Keep this guy in the state. Curtis Samuel has a bright future, and it would be a shame if the Browns passed on him.