The annual SB Nation Writers Mock Draft is in progress over at our network's draft coverage stream. Two weeks ago, I unveiled the pick at No. 4 overall for the Cleveland Browns, OT Greg Robinson, which received mixed reviews from the DBN faithful.
I was back on the clock at No. 26 overall, so how did I finish off Cleveland's first round? Not with a quarterback or a wide receiver, but with a cornerback: Darqueze Dennard.
Pick | Player | Position | Height | Weight | Class |
26. Cleveland Browns | Darqueze Dennard , Michigan State |
CB |
6'0" |
199 | SR |
Chris Pokorny: "I was originally thinking wide receiver with this pick, but there are still several available and I think I can push that back to the No. 35 pick. Next on my agenda for the Browns was a cornerback or an inside linebacker. I like the physical nature of Dennard, with the ability to play press-man coverage and the competitive attitude he brings to the field. He would be an impact defensive player in year one of Mike Pettine’s defense. The Browns are expected to lock up Joe Haden to an extension soon, and the combination of Haden-Dennard could give the Browns one of the best one-two cornerback punches in the NFL. The pick would also address the Browns' need for a nickel corner, since Buster Skrine has excelled in that role in the past and can move down into that position from the starting lineup. Having a secondary with Haden, Dennard, Skrine and Donte Whitner would also alleviate the perceived weakness at the free safety position (Tashaun Gipson)." |
To see what Dan Kadar thought of our pick (and what people are saying in the comments section), go here. Head on over and vote for what grade you would give this pick, and let us know in the comments section what you think of it!