The fifth pick: Junkin territory

I’ve made my pick in the updated version of the Interblog Mock Draft, featuring bloggers representing each team. Unlike last time, when I drafted Curry and Clay with the Browns’ first two picks, I have my misgivings. Plus, I made my pick before the latest shenanigans, including Kevin Shaffer’s release, so maybe I’d better brush up on those tackles after all. Anyway, here’s my write-up:

5. Browns – Malcolm Jenkins (DB) Ohio State

Cleveland has needs aplenty, and I would’ve taken Curry or Crabtree here in a heartbeat. I’m not thrilled about the remaining options for this high-stakes pick. This draft seems pretty deep but not front-loaded with difference-makers near the top. Maybe some team jonesing for a quarterback would trade up here, but I’m not banking on it. The past decade’s Browns have been the first team to take a QB, DE, DT, RB, C, TE, WR, OT, and even long snapper in their respective drafts. This year, the linebacking needs are legion, but I’m not sold on Orapko, Brown, or the USC trio quite this high. Orapko, the Texas tweener, might help mount a pass rush, but his injury history scares me. So I’ll settle for the nation’s best defensive back (and no, I am not and have never been a Buckeye fan) and debate later whether he’ll be a cornerstone cover guy or a slick safety. Truth is, the Browns need both.