The Athletic Fixes Browns 2018 NFL redraft
The 2018 draft was a pivotal point for the Cleveland Browns. The team juked their blossoming analytics department for a more traditional approach. Newly hired general manager John Dorsey burned through the team's excess draft capital from their 1-31 campaign. Dorsey managed to find a few franchise players in the draft, but couldn't find an answer at quarterback. Dorsey was fired a year later after he completely mismanaged the team's war chest.
Mays and Brugler, with the benefit of hindsight, fix the Browns' quarterback woes by selecting Josh Allen. Allen was a raw quarterback prospect entering the league. He refined his throwing technique and became one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. However, I think the two made a mistake by not selecting Lamar Jackson in the redraft. Jackson and Allen have been neck and neck in the rankings. The media cemented their rivalry this year by awarding Allen the MVP and giving Jackson the first-team All-Pro nod. I think Jackson has more magic than Allen. The Ravens have failed to build a passing attack around Jackson. However, Jackson has made the offense work with Baltimore's island of misfit toys. If the Ravens ever get him a top-notch wide receiver, they'll become a dangerous playoff team. While Allen is a dynamite quarterback, I still give the nod to Jackson. The Browns should've drafted either one.
Mays and Brugler fixed the Browns' defense with the fourth pick. The Browns drafted Ward with the pick in real life. However, the two had other plans to restore the defense. They selected linebacker Fred Warner to man the middle of the defense for the Browns. Warner has been the best linebacker in the league for the last few seasons. He's become the prototype for the position. The Browns would've been lucky to have him. But I have an allegiance to Ward. I think he's been the best cornerback after Jalen Ramsey since his rookie season. He's one of the best technicians in the NFL. I believe he has the best soft press coverage skills in NFL history. His injuries have prevented him from getting the accolades he rightfully deserves. Warner is a fantastic player, and he's on the path to Canton.
Mays and Brugler have the Browns' two future Hall of Fame players in their redraft. The duo showed a lot more love to the team as they had four Browns players selected in their first-round redraft. Watch the show to find out where they sent some current Browns' greats.
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