Cleveland Browns
Early on in the draft process we identified two players available this year that were franchise players. We knew there was a chance that one of them could slide to us at pick #4 but in the end, we couldn't risk another team jumping ahead of us. The first rounder we gave up to move up (we also received a fourth round pick) was a tricky situation for us. We didn't like the value there and in fact, the one player we would have taken there, was picked much earlier than expected.
First Round Pick - Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
We really felt like we hit a homerun here. The Browns already have great fans but now we've given them an elite, game-changing player, a face to the organization. We envision the 2012 Heisman winner will be the biggest Cleveland Brown since Jim Brown. His intelligence, athletic ability, and arm strength will help this team become a perrenial contender. With the defense-heavy AFC North, his mobility gives us an incredible advantage.
Second Round Pick - Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers
We looked at moving up when the Wide Receivers were coming off the board but remained patient and got our guy here. Sanu is a versatile receiver that should be the number one target for Grifin for the forseeable future. We really liked his experience with the Wildcat and are very intrigued on what the offense can do with him and the equally versatile Josh Cribbs lining up at a variety of positions.
Third Round Pick - Jaron Housley, CB, Virginia Tech
Very tempted to address RB here but felt Housley was too good to pass on. He will be groomed to replace Sheldon Brown and contribute right away in Nickel packages. With Joe Haden entrenched at one corner spot, we feel we will have a very talented duo for a long time.
Fourth Round Pick - Mitchell Schwartz, T, Cal
Very surprised to see him available here. We love his versatilty and think he can compete for the starting Right Tackle job very soon.
Fourth Round Pick - Janzen Jackson, FS, McNeese State
Good risk, reward pick here. Was an All-SEC safety at Tennessee in 2010. Whatever concerns we had about his character were put to rest by his year at McNeese State, his father's alma mater, where he challenged himself by playing cornerback. We see him as a ballhawk Free Safety.
Forth Round Pick - Akeim Hicks, DT, Regina(Canada)
Another low risk, high-reward player. We liked that Hicks was one of the top Junior College players in the nation in 2008 and was signed at LSU. In fact, before the NCAA ruled him ineligible, he was ahead of Michael Brockers on the LSU depth chart. He was a man among boys in Canada and named to their All-Star team. At 6-5, 310 lbs, a huge wingspan, and very athletic, we think Hicks will be a match-up nightmare for offensive linemen. We like the idea of teaming him with 2011 first rounder Phil Taylor, anchoring our defensive line.