With the fourth pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns select Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama
As I make this selection, I can't help but think that Mike Holmgren and GM Tom Heckert absolutely screwed their franchise not only in the short term but perhaps over the next decade by not putting together the proper package for the number two overall pick. There is no such thing as giving up too much for a franchise quarterback and that's what I confidently believe Robert Griffin is. Now, the Browns are stuck at number four still looking for the face of their franchise. Luckily for one of the worst organizations in the NFL, the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson is still on the board.
The Browns HAVE to take Trent Richardson here. It fills a huge hole while simultaneously giving Colt McCoy a much-needed weapon. When you look at the other options, Cleveland would be reaching for Ryan Tannehill at this slot and whats the point of drafting Justin Blackmon when you have no running game? Are the Browns really going to be successful passing 35+ times a game with McCoy averaging 5.9 yards per attempt?
Richardson's only real competition at this selection is Morris Claiborne (a great prospect in his own right) since Holmgren has a cornerback fetish. But if Cleveland is to get out of the AFC North cellar this century, this is the right move to make.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the clock. Jose Romero will make the selection for them.
Previous picks:
- Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
- Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor
- Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC
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