Along with some veterans are some new faces. While the starting quarterback position remains an "open competition," according to head coach Eric Mangini, several problem positions have been addressed by the new staff.
Center Alex Mack, from Cal, was not the draft pick some fans were looking for, but he is versatile in that he can rotate to the guard spot as well. The two receivers being picked in the second round signifies an effort by the new regime to rectify the issues at the skill position of wide receiver.
With 5th year man Braylon Edwards entering his final year of his rookie contract, the Team had to bring in some guys in order to evaluate their ability to adapt to the new offense and assess their NFL abilities.
I think the running back has a chance to make an impact, especially because of the lack of NFL experience on the depth chart.
Overall, the Browns had a decent draft, despite my draft day convictions. Sports Illustrated's Jim Trotter reported in the May 4, 2009 issue: "Each of his (Eric Mangini) top four picks received all-academic honors either nationally or within their conferences, and sixth-round cornerback Don Carey of Norfolk State could have gone to Yale if he'd so chosen."
I'd say that is a draft that built for years down the road. The Browns played for knowledge and experience over skill; a luxury given to those with four year contracts.
P.S.
Pay attention to the potential signing of Graham Harrell, NCAA record breaking quarterback from Texas Tech. (If you feel bad about losing Michael Crabtree in the draft, it ain't bad to have the guy that tossed him the skin for two or three years, depending on how you evaluate eligibility standards in the NCAA.)
