Cleveland Browns: 5 best NFL Draft picks of all-time

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Nov 30, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; A detailed view of the logo of the Dawg Pound band on a drum against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens won 33-27. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Clay Matthews was drafted with the 12th back in 1978 out of the University of Southern California. Matthews lasted 19 seasons in the NFL, however, he only played with the Browns for 16 seasons.

During his time in the NFL, Matthews was a very good player. When he retired, he had accumulated 69.5 sacks and 16 interceptions. He is considered the best Cleveland Browns defender ever.

Matthews had some height issues when he first entered the NFL. He is listed at 6’2″, which was a tad short for linebackers when he was drafted. As a result, he was shifted around a lot and played every linebacker position.

Despite his height shortcomings, Matthews was able to become a very versatile player in the NFL. Back when he played in the NFL, it was uncommon for linebackers to rotate their position and so Matthews became highly regarded around the league.

Also, it is interesting to note that football runs in the Matthews family. He is the father to Clay Matthews and brother to the Hall of Fame offensive lineman, Bruce Matthews.

Next: No. 3 Bernie Kosar

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