Tag Archives: Joel

1st – 8th –  Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State

Gilbert fills a need at cornerback opposite Joe Haden. He gives the Browns potentially the best cornerback tandem in the AFC North. A cover corner with long arms, a good vertical jump who always seems to be in good position and around the ball. Not a good tackler and needs some work on his technique and getting closer to receivers at the line of scrimmage for a better jam.  BONUS- A great return man who can take it the distance as he did 6 times in college.  –  Should be a starter from day one.

1st – 22nd – Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M

Like “Johnny Football”, the Browns maneuvered their way around the first round to come back and get who they hope will be their franchise quarterback of the future. A mobile, accurate QB with big hands, who was highly successful against the toughest competition on a week-in, week-out basis in the country. Has great leadership and plays with a lot of heart, desire, passion and was a playmaker in college. The big question is will his short stature allow him to make those same plays at the NFL level and can his smaller frame withstand the physical punishment of faster, quicker, stronger, more violent defenders in the NFL? It would be best for him to not be thrown to the wolves, especially considering the first game of the regular season is on the road at Pittsburgh. Sitting and learning for AT LEAST a half a season would be extremely beneficial to him.  –  But I could see if the Browns start the season 0-3 and head into their bye week winless, you might see him start the 4^th game of the season at Tennessee.

2nd – 35th –  Joel Bitonio, OG, Nevada

Played left tackle in college but is probably better suited as an inside guy at guard, however his versatility is a major plus. When Mike Pettine was talking about getting tougher he had Bitonio in mind. Has a nasty steak in him which the Browns need.  –  Should be a starter from day one.

3rd – 71st –  Christian Kirksey, OLB, Iowa

Not a very powerful linebacker but has good athleticism, is quick, agile and a motor that never stops. Also a good cover backer. Needs to separate from blockers better.  –  Should start on special teams, but is 2^nd or 3^rd on the depth chart at linebacker.

3rd – 94th – Terrance West, RB, Towson

A power back that will get you the tough yards in short yardage situations. Prefers to deliver the blow as opposed to taking it, but that was against smaller competition, we’ll see if he’s able to do the same in the NFL. Has a good stiff arm, catches the ball well and has good feet. Ball security must improve again against stronger competition and needs to work on his blocking.  –  Has a chance to be Ben Tate’s backup right away.

4th – 127th – Pierre Desir, CB, Lindenwood

Was the small college defensive player of the year at Lindenwood. 25 career interceptions. Has good size at 6’1, plus long arms at 33 inches and enjoys contact. But is raw and didn’t play against elite competition often and when he did in the East-West Shrine and Senior Bowl he was very inconsistent.  –  Should help on special teams and the Browns will try and develop him in to a starter down the road.