2018 NFL Draft Rumors: Cleveland Browns enamored with Sam Darnold

The Cleveland Browns possess the No. 1 and No. 4 overall selections in the 2018 NFL Draft. A recent report states that Cleveland covets quarterback Sam Darnold.

The Cleveland Browns are in complete control of the 2018 NFL Draft. Every major decision will run through the No. 1 and No. 4 overall selections, where the Browns will dictate the pace of the selection process in every sense of the word.

Following a Pro Day that silenced a vast majority of his critics, it appears as though Sam Darnold will be the first domino to fall.

Matt Miller of Bleacher Report recently reported that Darnold is a lock to go No. 1 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. It was an intriguing revelation, but it’s understandable for others around the NFL to seek out confirmation.

According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, one AFC executive put it plain as day: Darnold is going No. 1 overall to the Browns.

"“He’s going number one,” said one AFC exec, via text from L.A. “Everyone out there today saw the Browns’ franchise quarterback.”"

Basing a player’s projection strictly on their Pro Day would be irresponsible, but Darnold has far more than one afternoon of brilliance working in his favor.

Upwards of 20 players have started at quarterback for the Browns since 1999. No player has started more than eight games in three consecutive seasons, which clearly outlines the need for a franchise quarterback.

Cleveland executed a trade for former Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor at the start of the 2018 offseason, which admittedly gives it a Pro Bowler under center.

Taylor appears to be viewed as more of a bridge quarterback than the long-term answer, however, which brings Cleveland to Darnold.

Darnold is a polarizing player due to his less than prototypical physical measurements, but he’s far better on film than on paper. He’s a pure competitor who has a strong track record in the clutch and can make every throw at all three levels.

It could be inconsequential, but Cleveland’s reported interest is seemingly supported by a photograph of Browns owner Jimmy Haslam sitting with Darnold’s family at USC’s Pro Day.

That could mean nothing, but it certainly adds smoke to the reported fire.

Must Read: Key strengths and weaknesses for Sam Darnold

Nothing is set in stone until the pick is executed, but Sam Darnold to the Cleveland Browns at the 2018 NFL Draft appears to be a virtual guarantee.