What if the Cleveland Browns trade the first overall pick?
The Cleveland Browns may find themselves in a position this offseason where trading the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft makes sense.
Before you go any further, a disclaimer: Many fans may not advocate for the Cleveland Browns to trade the No. 1 overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. Most believe that general manager John Dorsey and friends would be crazy to trade down. However, it is still a situation that fans must address. Now, on with the show.
The upcoming 2018 NFL Draft is absolutely crucial for the Browns. With five picks in the first two rounds, this could be just what the organization needs to finally get it turned around.
The top two quarterback options in this draft class are somewhat clear-cut. UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen, and his cross-town rival, USC quarterback Sam Darnold. However, there are problems with both quarterbacks.
First off, it seems that Rosen would rather not play for the Browns, considering what he said at media day before this year’s Cactus Bowl:
UCLA QB Josh Rosen on getting drafted by certain teams, if he comes out this year: “I’d rather be a lower pick at the right team than a higher at the wrong team.”
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) December 26, 2017
Of course, Rosen did not come right out and say it. However, it is easy to interpret this as an “I do not want to play for the Browns” message.
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Darnold, on the other hand, has simply looked pretty pedestrian for most of the season. Sure, he has his moments, as does every high-level quarterback prospect. But he is much more of a project quarterback than Rosen, and a project is something the Browns currently cannot afford.
So, all this begs the question: what if the Browns trade the first overall pick? While rather unlikely, it could still happen.
There are numerous talented players in this draft class. If Cleveland were to trade their first overall pick, they could get an absolute king’s ransom from another team. Perhaps a team like the New York Jets, who are desperate for a quarterback, but just out of “top prospect” range at No. 6?
In this scenario, the Browns would probably have the fourth and sixth picks in the draft, along with some other Jets throw-ins. That haul is likely good and could still allow the Browns to select Alabama defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick and maybe even Penn State running back Saquon Barkley, if he falls to number six.
In a draft absolutely loaded with quarterback talent, the Browns could find a first-round signal caller in the second-round. Perhaps Louisville’s Lamar Jackson, or Oklahoma State’s Mason Rudolph.
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While it is hard to envision Browns actually trading the top pick, the possibilities are endless if they should choose to do so.
Once again, it is imperative for the Browns to get this draft right, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Is trading the first overall pick finally the answer? Only time can tell.