NFL Mock Draft 2014: Cleveland Browns Select C.J. Mosley

C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama

C.J. Mosley is tailor-made for the Cleveland Browns.

The Browns, in this draft scenario, have lost out on their top-4 quarterback options. But never fret. There are some value plays at the position waiting for them in the second round: McCarron, Mettenberger, Garroppolo (but not Tom Savage, never Tom Savage, don't get the hype about Tom Savage), to name a few. They can scoop up a quarterback in the second and go for a strong running back with the pick after (Jeremy Hill, anyone?). So it's time to once again stick to best player available.

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And my what a BPA this is. Surely no one imagined the best open field tackler in the draft falling this far?  The best inside linebacker in the draft? The Butkus Award winner and SEC Defensive Player of the Year? The Browns ought to sprint to the podium to get Mosley if he is available here. They signed Karlos Dansby, but they do still have a need at the position, and let's not forget that Dansby is no spring chicken either. Plug and play Mosley into an already formidable defense that includes the likes of Joe Haden, Donte Whitner, Paul Kruger, and friends.

The knocks on Mosley include his slight frame, durability questions, and some refinement of technique as well as concerns about his coverage ability (and he's actually not all that bad in coverage to begin with). But those are all weakness that can be fixed with time and coaching. Focus on his strengths: the instincts, the tackling, the agility, the strength that makes up for his size, the run defense, and the character and leadership. Bottom line is that Mosley will be a plug-and-play starter with Pro-Bowl potential (for whatever that's worth anymore).

Don't overthink this Cleveland. SEC! SEC! SEC!

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Catch up with all of the mock draft selections in our 2014 CSC Community Mock Draft Hub.