Okay, I know most of you don't care that much. But I don't know what to do with myself this draft since Cleveland media isn't discussing which QB they should take #1 in the draft. It's been a while since we were in this position.

 

LT Joe Thomas retired in early 2018 and the Browns had a hard time coming up with a plan to replace him. They drafted a LT with the first pick in the second round but he wound up as a backup at the Guard position behind Joel Bitonio and Kevin Zeitler. They switched their Pro Bowl Guard (Bitonio) to LT and then back to Guard. And finally settled on Greg Robinson at LT, a player they didn't seem to trust early on.

 

So, now that Cleveland has a QB you would think that protecting that QB with a 1st Round draft pick at LT would be the next logical step. However, there is an interesting stat that has come to light concerning the last half of the season. Baker Mayfield was barely touched, let alone sacked in games 9-17. With Freddie Kitchens calling plays in those games and Mayfield responding to his coaching, the Oline registered only 9 QB Hits Allowed in games 9-17. This was the best in the league. The next best was Indianapolis at 29!

 

What does this mean? Cleveland's line was working very well together, Kenny Kitchens knows how to call plays that keeps Mayfield out of danger, and Baker Mayfield has enough athleticism and a very quick release to get himself out of trouble. In addition, the Browns have all 5 linemen returning next season. This bodes well for protection of Mayfield in 2019.

 

Therefore, Cleveland probably does not need to use a top pick on a Left Tackle. They may focus on Dline, CB, or WR at the 17th pick.

 

What do you think? Will Cleveland or should Cleveland pick a LT with the #17 pick in the draft?

I guess it depends on who is there at 17.

 

With all the weapons the Browns have now investing in their OL sounds like a winner.

If there is a LT available who projects to be a perennial Pro Bowl player, I think they will take him. But if not, I think they go DLine. They need exterior and interior help.

 

On the other hand, this draft is pretty deep at DLine so maybe they can afford to wait until the 2nd round or so to get a good one.