2014 NFL mock draft: Browns select Marqise Lee

With the 26th pick in Pride Of Detroit's 2014 NFL mock draft, the Cleveland Browns select USC wide receiver Marqise Lee. Bighaircut is serving as the Browns' general manager, and his reasoning for the pick is below.

The Browns could go in many different directions here. Zack Martin, an OG from Notre Dame, crossed my mind. He's generally regarded as a top 15-20 pick in this upcoming draft, and the Browns do have somewhat of a need on the offensive line. However, after drafting Johnny Manziel with the fourth pick, I decided to give him another weapon that the Browns offense desperately needs.

After filling a few holes in FA, such as OLB, S and RB, the Browns neglected to add in a veteran WR, and Greg Little is more suited to play a diminished role, as most Browns fans can attest to. Marqise Lee can line up outside or in the slot and is extremely dangerous from both. Considered a top-10 lock a year ago after a breathtaking sophomore season, Lee was hit with the injury bug the next year and his draft stock suffered. However, he has impeccable route-running ability and impressive acceleration in and out of his cuts, which creates above-average YAC. He may not be the biggest, fastest or strongest WR, but Lee also has an impressive football IQ based on watching many of his breakdown videos. He saved his QB many times by either coming back for the ball or breaking off his route to better accompany his QB.

If Lee hadn't been ravaged by injuries last year, he would likely have been the second WR off the board. The Browns are getting a steal in this draft if Lee stays healthy. His combination of quickness, route running, YAC and hands could really give Josh Gordon much-needed help opposite from him.

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Check out the 2014 POD Community Mock Draft tracker for a look at all of the picks.