2014 NFL Draft grades: Cleveland Browns select Justin Gilbert

Feb 25, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys defensive back Justin Gilbert runs the shuttle run during the 2014 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

With the 8th overall pick in the 2014, the Cleveland Browns selected Justin Gilbert, cornerback out of Oklahoma State.

Cleveland traded twice in this draft, back a few spots and then up one, to go get their man Justin Gilbert.

There’s not a lot you can’t love about Gilbert, who is a prototypical defensive back. He’s an All-Big 12 and All-American cornerback who has tremendous speed. He was tied for third in the FBS with seven interceptions in 2013.

One of the biggest pluses to Gilbert is his ability to return kicks, where he will be exceptionally dangerous for the Browns.

Enough of the good, now on to why this was a surprising pick.

The Browns needed…well…a lot. If you heard the reaction of the Cleveland contingency, it was a bit muted when Gilbert’s name was announced. Browns fans want a quarterback, and the fact that Cleveland left both Johnny Manziel and Teddy Bridgewater sitting on the board shows that they don’t think their QB is in this draft.

They could still get a project QB later in the draft, but for them not to go after an offensive guard or tackle is almost unbelieveable.

The Browns got a good player, but it wasn’t the best available and it certainly wasn’t their top need in my opinion.

OVERALL PICK GRADE: C

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