2018 NFL Mock Draft: Opening Weekend Edition
By Jon Dove
4. Cleveland Browns- Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
The Cleveland Browns have named DeShone Kizer their starting quarterback and plan to give him a shot to earn the long-term job. I’m making this pick based on the possibility that Kizer shines and becomes the team’s franchise quarterback.
This scenario isn’t out of the question as Kizer has all the physical tools needed to succeed. It also helps that he will be working with Hue Jackson who has a knack for developing quarterbacks.
If Kizer seizes the long-term job it means the Browns can look to addresses other areas. Running back isn’t a major need, but it will be tough to pass up on an elite talent like Saquon Barkley. He’s an all-around player who can contribute as both a runner and pass catcher.
Barkley is a more explosive athlete than Isaiah Crowell and would give the Browns a big-play threat. His addition would help open things up for the passing attack and take pressure off of Kizer.
The other scenario is that Kizer fails to produce as a rookie and the Browns target another quarterback in this draft. At this point, Josh Rosen and Mason Rudolph are the top two quarterback prospects left on the board.