The latest NFL mock draft has been released and the Cleveland Browns are not drafting a quarterback in it. Armed with two first-round picks, ESPN's Todd McShay believes the Browns will grab offensive lineman TJ Clemmings and wide receiver/ tight end hybrid Devin Funchess with their picks respectively. However, most Browns beat writers believe the team has a quarterback on the brain as they continue to get linked to either Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota in the draft.
To acquire one of the two top quarterbacks in the draft, the Browns have to trade up. Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer believes the Browns are preparing to trade up for Mariota or Winston instead of hoping one of them drops in the draft or grabbing someone like Brett Hundley instead. The Browns will only move up if they feel they can get one of the two best options, if not McShay's prediction could come true.
One thing the Browns will not be doing is trading Johnny Manziel despite his admission into rehab a week ago. The rookie quarterback has certainly started his NFL career on an interesting note considering he is getting himself in the headlines for everything but good football play. However, there is no trade market for the quarterback and Cleveland is aware. General manager Ray Farmer told the media that the Browns are committed to Manziel's future, but they are uncertain if he is ready to be a starting quarterback. Right now, they are not even sure if he will be ready to play come OTAs and even training camp. Manziel may be staying put, but that does not mean Browns fans will see him on the field any time soon.
One thing is certain, the priority for Cleveland needs to be re-signing Brian Hoyer. The veteran quarterback proved he can win last season, bringing the Browns a small amount of success during 2014, but he is approaching free agency and will not hesitate to walk away from the franchise. Hoyer wants to start and whether Cleveland wants to admit it or not, they are the best team for that to happen. Re-signing Hoyer at least gives the team flexibility at the position.
The Browns are a mess right now and need some stability. Josh Gordon is gone for the year. Jordan Cameron has no intentions of returning. Manziel's future is uncertain. Hoyer can be their first building block to getting back in the right direction while Mariota or Winston could be the future.
