The Cleveland Browns continue to try and make adjustments that they think will push them to the next level, but the biggest question that remains is the quarterback spot. The Browns have a solid running back tandem and they are slowly pushing to acquire more fire power at the wide receiver spot, but uncertainty is still circling around the quarterback position. As the NFL Draft approaches, are the Browns planning to push for Marcus Mariota?
According to NFL.com, the Browns are still unhappy with the quarterback position despite acquiring Josh McCown and confirming that he could be the starter in 2015. McCown is coming off a down year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Browns are simply hoping he can re-kindle that skillset he had with the Chicago Bears. No one is certain about Johnny Manziel and his future as he spends time in a rehab center. Head coach Mike Pettine confirmed that Manziel would be returning to Cleveland and the team had high expectations for his future, but that is no guarantee to work out.
With two first-round draft picks, the Browns are armed to grab Mariota. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns were willing to give a first-round draft pick for Sam Bradford, so trading up for Mariota should be no issue. The question is how high they would have to go. The Tennessee Titans claim they are not drafting a quarterback early, but that could be bluffing. Cleveland might have to make a deal with them in order to get the former Oregon star. They also could only have to just as high as No. 5 barring the Washington Redskins do not want Mariota. There is competition for the reigning Heisman winner and the Browns will have to push hard to make it work.
Several players are speaking out in favor of their team's quarterback choices. Linebacker Brian Orakpo, who ended up with the Titans, believes Robert Griffin III can ease back into becoming a productive starter. The Browns' new wide receiver, Dwayne Bowe, likes what Cleveland has to offer right now and is not concerned about needing a new quarterback in the mix.
Mariota is popular. With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers almost guaranteeing they draft Jameis Winston, the race is on for Mariota as many believe the Oregon star is ready to start Week 1 for a franchise.