2011 NFL Mock Draft Splits Experts Between Robert Quinn and Julio Jones for Cleveland Browns at No. 6
I have been pegging the Browns in a “can’t lose” situation with this pick for a while now, but that might be changing in some eyes.
Their major need is a wide receiver, but they also have needs for a defensive transition that will ultimately make this team better in a 4-3.
They have the opportunity to add one of the best players in this draft, LSU’s Patrick Peterson, but they added a cornerback in the first round last season.
I think Haden and Peterson would be a terrific combination, but I can see the hesitation in adding top 10 corners in back-to-back seasons.
Mel Kiper Jr.: Julio Jones
There are a lot of Browns fans probably hoping that Green falls to this spot, but if Jones is the one available, he’s an outstanding consolation prize. His size and speed combination is the best in the draft at the position, and his development as a wideout over the past year shows a determination and work ethic that will be loved by the coaching staff. The Browns need a true No. 1 at wide receiver, and if healthy, Jones can be that guy. A gifted athlete, he blocks as hard as he runs routes. Great when healthy, still really good when battling through pain.
Rob Rang: Robert Quinn
Adding a target for Colt McCoy is certainly also a possibility, but the Browns are more likely to get an immediate impact from a pass rusher than a wide receiver. Much like the argument for taking a quarterback when picking high in the draft, teams rarely get the opportunity to take the best pass rusher in a given draft. Quinn’s ability to attack the edge makes him an ideal candidate for Cleveland to build around in their conversion to a 4-3 scheme.
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Pat Kirwan: Julio Jones
The Browns need offensive playmakers. They haven’t had any since Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards. If the team wants to truly evaluate Colt McCoy, they need to give him a go-to receiver. Jones will also be a terrific blocker in the run game. He could remind Mike Holmgren of Sterling Sharpe.
Jeff Risdon: Robert Quinn
Given this scenario it’s either Quinn or Julio Jones. Mike Holmgren is not taking a CB in the top 10 two years in a row, Peterson fans…
My pick: Robert Quinn
The Julio Jones chatter is surprising to me, especially from Kirwan and Kiper.
I’d still make an argument for Peterson simply because he is too talented to pass up.
Jones is a good receiver with great physical attributes, but his measurables do not always translate to success on the field.
He is prone to lapses in concentration and does not play nearly as fast as his timed speed. However, he is a threat to score any time he touches the ball and will be the immediate No. 1 in Cleveland.
Quinn is a bit of project, but he still has his best football in front of him. His ability off the edge, quick first step and tremendous upside are too much to pass up in this scenario.