NFL

AFC North: grading the draft

By Times Staff Writer
Published April 24, 2005

CLEVELAND BROWNS

First selection (Round 1, No. 3 overall): BRAYLON EDWARDS, WR, Michigan

Height: 6-3Weight: 211

Scouting report: The son of a former player, Edwards should have a long and prosperous career, and he'll be busy too. A touchdown machine for the Wolverines, Edwards instantly becomes the No. 1 deep threat for the Browns. In 2004, Edwards had 97 catches for 1,339 yards and 15 TDs, and carried himself with the poise and passion of a team leader.

Other selections: BRODNEY POOL, FS, Oklahoma; CHARLIE FRYE, QB, Akron

Grade: A-

First selection (Round 1, No. 30 overall): HEATH MILLER, TE, Virginia

Height: 6-5Weight: 255

Scouting report: The Steelers had a big need at cornerback, but an even bigger one at tight end. They answered that need with the best of the lot. Miller is quick and has good hands and should become an instant target for Ben Roethlisberger, particularly with the departure of Plaxico Burress.

Other selections: BRYANT MCFADDEN, DB, Florida State; TRAI ESSEX, OT, Northwestern.

Grade: B

First selection (Round 1, No. 22 overall): MARK CLAYTON, WR, Oklahoma

Height: 5-10Weight: 193

Scouting report: Baltimore had tried everything to get help for the receiving corps and think Clayton can measure up. At 5-10, he's going to have to prove that "shorter" receivers can still produce in the NFL as they do in college. With the Sooners, he had 66 catches for 876 yards and eight touchdowns in 2004.

Other selections: DAN CODY, DE, Oklahoma; ADAM TERRY, OT, Syracuse.

Grade: B-

First selection (Round 1, No. 17 overall): DAVID POLLACK, DE, Georgia

Height: 6-2Weight: 261

Scouting report: It should surprise no one that coach Marvin Lewis went with defense with his top pick. The Bengals had trouble on the defensive line of scrimmage and Pollack's high motor will be a plus. One knock is his size, but history with the Bulldogs shows he's still capable of putting up big numbers.

Other selections: ODELL THURMAN, LB, Georgia; CHRIS HENRY, WR, West Virginia.

Grade: B-

[Last modified April 24, 2005, 12:26:30]