2016 NFL offseason: Cleveland Browns needs
By Dani Bostick
The Browns might find their franchise quarterback in the draft.
Haslan has indicated that the team will rebuild primarily through the draft, but they have a dismal track record of acquiring talent that way (or any way, for that matter). The team managed to reap few benefits from a pair of first-round picks in 2014, as both quarterback Johnny Manziel and cornerback Justin Gilbert routinely failed to produce. 2014 was not an anomaly. The team seems to disappoint most years (Barkevious Mingo, Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson …).
The 2016 draft does not feature as much quarterback talent as previous years, but the team has to attempt to find their franchise quarterback in Round 1. Bringing in a washed up player, or someone of questionable character is not a long-term solution. Cal quarterback Jared Goff and North Dakota State quarterback Carson Wentz are both first-round options.
The Browns urgently need a wide receiver. There will likely be several ready-to-contribute options in the second and third rounds, likely including Ohio State receivers Braxton Miller and Michael Thomas, Tyler Boyd of Pitt, and Josh Doctson of TCU.
In later rounds, the Browns could afford to choose the best available player in order to add some much-needed talent and depth. If they lose Tashaun Gipson to free agency, they might consider going for a defensive back in the mid-to-late rounds, if not sooner.
The Browns will not be a powerhouse in 2016, but the offseason could provide a welcome opportunity to cull the dead wood and add men of character and talent to the squad. Perhaps under Hue Jackson the team will improve.