SETTING THE TABLE

Assuming that the Browns’ free agency signings are complete, and barring any player trades, here’s my quick-and-easy draft need table. It shouldn’t be terribly shocking to anyone, but it may be useful in stimulating some discussion, or — better yet — as a reference for that mid-draft and post-draft analysis.

Definitions:

  • Critical — a first-day, if not first-round, pick is essential
  • High — must be addressed in the draft, preferably on the first day
  • Moderate — use of a third- to seventh-round pick is advised
  • Possible — good value picks at this position shouldn’t be overlooked
  • Little or none — using a pick at this position would be mystifying


Position
Need


Quarterback Possible
Running back Moderate
Tight end Little or none
Wide receiver Moderate
Tackle Possible
Guard High
Center Little or none
Nose tackle High
Defensive end High
Outside linebacker High
Inside linebacker Critical
Cornerback Possible
Safety Moderate
K/P/LS Little or none.