Last year, I wanted the Browns to stay where they were and pick Sammy Watkins at #4, and either Teddy Bridgewater or Jimmy Garappolo at #26. They would have been so much better off then where they are today.
I think GM Ray Farmer is a classic case of the peter principle, a guy promoted beyond his capability. Justin Gilbert and Johnny Manziel were complete disasters in their rookie seasons. Maybe Gilbert can recover, but I have my doubts about Manziel. Even if he gets his head on straight, I just don't think he has the physical skills to be successful at the pro level. I think Gilbert at least has the physical ability if he can mature and concentrate on the game.
Mariota seems to have what it takes. The problem for him is he’s the subject of a bidding war, the team that gets him looks like they’ll give up at least 5 picks to get him, and no players is worth 5 draft picks. That’s 4 picks that could have given him an offensive line, a good receiver, improved defense. Smart teams trade down in the draft and stock up picks (this is the first time in years the Pats come in with less than 10 picks... they have 9), dumb teams trade up in the draft and give away picks. Mariota is going to be drafted by a dumb team.
The Browns somehow have stacked up 10 picks (not sure where 2 of them came from), if they’re smart and USE them they could do good things. Of course it’s reported they offered both first rounders to get to #2, which means they aren’t being smart.