Browns Select Josh Gordon in Supplemental Draft

Added on Jul 12, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

The NFL’s annual Supplemental Draft normally comes and goes each summer without much fanfare. Last year exiled Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor made headlines when the Raiders selected him in the third round. This year former Baylor and Utah wide receiver Josh Gordon was the only big name available. The talented but troubled player has been labeled a risk, but not enough to deter the receiver-hungry Browns.

Cleveland nabbed Gordon in the second round, meaning they will forgo their second-round pick in the 2013 draft. Gordon is a talented playmaker with ideal size and loads of potential. However, he was kicked off Baylor’s team in August 2011 for rules infractions. He later transferred to Utah, but was forced to sit out the season.

At 6-3, 220 pounds, Gordon possesses the frame NFL personnel gurus and coaches covet. He can utilize his upper body strength and physical style to shed bump-and-run coverage, and is fast enough to separate from defenders. In many ways, he’s similar to Greg Little, who Cleveland took in the second round of the 2011 draft. Both have dealt with off the field issues and both are considered skilled prospects.

It would’ve been interesting to see how Gordon performed during Robert Griffin III’s Heisman campaign. If he hadn’t been removed from the program, he likely would’ve posted excellent numbers alongside Kendall Wright, who the Titans took 20th overall back in April.

Numerous scouts gave him a first-round grade, despite a ho-hum 40-time of 4.52. The Browns probably paid too much for a player with question marks, but they are in desperate need of offensive weapons, so the decision will be worth it should he develop into a starter.

With rookies Trent Richardson and Brandon Weeden in line to top the depth chart, Cleveland is leaning on a host of young players in 2012. Needless to say, working through the growing pains will be a slow process.

Source: NFL.com