Even if the Browns could position themselves to draft Arch Manning, would he pull an Eli and decline to play for them?
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Editor's note: Tony Grossi is a Cleveland Browns analyst for TheLandOnDemand.com and 850 ESPN Cleveland. He has covered the Browns since 1984.
Hey Tony: Under no circumstances will Arch Manning play for the Browns. It is a pipe dream. Mannings are known to manipulate the draft (Eli!). Do you foresee a scenario similar to when Eli was drafted?
-- Sam, Strongsville, OH
Hey Sam: Prior to the 2004 draft, Eli and his family had concerns about the San Diego Chargers’ ownership and their handling of Drew Brees’ shoulder injury. Despite the Browns’ problems in building a winner, I think the Haslam family has a good relationship with the Manning family that dates to Peyton’s time at University of Tennessee. I don’t see Arch Manning and his father, Cooper, pulling an Eli. That depends, of course, on the Browns even being in position to draft Arch, which is impossible to predict.
Hey Tony: Why should Browns fans believe that Andrew Berry has significantly improved the OL? The two biggest signings came from awful lines, and are graded lower than the players they're replacing. They're younger, and only one is slightly better at pass blocking. What gives?
-- Ryan, Ashtabula, OH
Hey Ryan: Actually, Elgton Jenkins (Green Bay) came from a decent line. Overall, though, I can’t disagree with you. My biggest concern is Berry did not cover himself in the draft by signing a temp left tackle and there’s still uncertainty at center. I’m really curious to see where they place Jenkins because he’s been only really good at left guard but they might envision him at center. Everybody forgets that Joel Bitonio-Ethan Pocic-Wyatt Teller was a formidable interior until injuries hit last year. The final two pieces will determine how well Berry does in rebuilding the line.
Hey Tony: Why did Kevin Stefanski offer up so little in his interviews? Did he really think that gave [the Browns] a competitive advantage? It was very frustrating to his customers.
-- Josh, Ooltewah, TN
Hey Josh: I don’t know the answer other than to say it was his genuine personality as a coach to give up as little as possible. There were a few times he said something noteworthy, making a controversial headline, and they may have spooked him into clamming up further. He was pretty consistent throughout his six years, though, in trying to be non-controversial.
Hey Tony: What are the odds Browns draft best player available at pick six? If you really dive deep into this draft class, you’ll realize there are starters for LT and WR to be had in the top 100! Malachi Fields is one of them and he’s projected in the 60’s.
-- Joe, Galion, OH
Hey Joe: The worst-kept secret in NFL draft rooms is “best player available” has been amended in recent times to “best player available – for us.” Which means, if you have an obvious need and there is a qualified player on the board, you take him even though he might not have the highest grade. That said, I still doubt at this time the Browns take a defensive player at No. 6 even if he has a higher grade than an offensive tackle or wide receiver.
Hey Tony: I appreciate your work. Having a general idea of the roster needs, do you think the Browns could draft 2 WRs in the first 3 rounds?
-- Demetrios, Cleveland, OH
Hey Demetrios: Possible, but highly doubtful. A little more possible if they acquired an extra pick and used it on a WR, but still doubtful.
Hey Tony: Would you trade for [Marvin] Harrison Jr?
-- Chris, Belmont, NC
Hey Chris: Depends on the price, of course. Honestly, I wouldn’t give up more than a second-round pick. Love his size and he’s still very young, but didn’t like his pre-draft attitude or his production in two seasons. But, still, he’d be WR1.
Hey Tony: What’s up with Martin Emerson? Surely bringing him back is cheaper than using a high pick on a new cornerback.
-- Tony, Tucson, AZ
Hey Tony: I think what’s going on is the Browns don’t believe a market will develop for Emerson and they will re-sign him at their price. I wouldn’t give up on him. Love his passion and work ethic.
Hey Tony: Do you see any realistic scenarios where we 1) make less than two picks in the first round or 2) trade up from 24?
-- Matt, Columbus, OH
Hey Matt: The most realistic scenario is a QB-desperate team moving up from the second round to take Ty Simpson at No. 24. And, yes, I would make that trade in a heartbeat for two No. 2s (’26 and ’27).