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.
I think owner Jimmy Haslam had a lot to do with drafting Johnny Football last year, more than he or anyone else are willing to admit.
I agree with you about stocking up picks. To think the Browns gave up a third round pick last year to go up a few slots in the first round and get Manziel makes me sick. Really dumb.