The Cleveland Browns could be in the market for a new quarterback after the off the field issues with Johnny Manziel this season, as new head coach Hue Jackson has expressed a need to bring in a new franchise player at the position. Jared Goff and Paxton Lynch could be potential draft options, while players like Sam Bradford, Robert Griffin III and Kirk Cousins could also be options.
Manziel actually wasn't a total mess on the field this season for Cleveland, but his off the field issues have become a distraction and that could lead to him being done with the Browns moving forward. According to NFL.com, Jackson was on Bleacher Report's XM Radio show last week and said that the Browns "need a QB." Jackson was asked about the team and the potential of picking a quarterback at the number two spot in the draft and he said that "If there is a QB at #2 that is a best fit for our team, we need to go get him."
While that doesn't necessarily mean that Manziel is done in Cleveland completely, it likely means that he is done as the starter and franchise QB. Manziel could return and serve as the backup or third string option behind Josh McCown and whoever the Browns draft/sign, but he likely will want out of that situation if it comes to pass. Manziel dealt with numerous off the field issues this season, including problems related to alcohol and a trip to Las Vegas. Jackson is taking over as head coach and he will want to do things his way, which could mean bringing in a new quarterback.
Jackson said to Bleacher Report radio when asked about the Vegas situation: "Yes, it would be (a non-starter),'' Jackson said. "Anytime things are not done the correct way with any player at any position, it would be a non-starter with me."
The Browns are in strong position to get a quarterback in the draft, as the team has the number two overall pick in the draft this year. The Titans are likely not drafting a QB after taking Marcus Mariota last year, although the team could consider trading out of the pick to another team. The Browns could get the chance to draft Jared Goff if the Titans sit tight, as he is considered to be the top quarterback prospect in the draft for 2016.
Goff comes in after throwing for 4714 yards and 43 touchdowns with just 13 interceptions for California last season. Paxton Lynch is another option for the Browns, but most scouts see Goff as the best prospect among the QBs in this class. The team also could go after players on the market this offseason, as names like Sam Bradford and Kirk Cousins are heading towards free agency, while Robert Griffin is expected to be released by the Washington Redskins.
