With so much attention surrounding the legal business of the NFL lockout, the draft is not generating the same anticipation it usually does. Have no fear, though! We have not forgotten.

This draft, for the Browns in particular, is extremely important. After making some subtle -- but noticeable -- strides last season, the Browns have to hit it big in this year's draft to kick-start a new coaching regime.

Here is a list of Cleveland’s biggest draft needs, in order:
WR: The Browns have a lot of solid players, but they do not have enough playmakers. Mangini would not have wanted a receiver in the first round, but this is a new era, and the Browns simply need to add to the talent level of this team. Mohamed Massaquoi is the best receiver the Browns have, and he is a third receiver at best for most teams in the league. Cleveland should use its first pick on a receiver, whether it be Julio Jones or AJ Green (if he happens to fall.)
DE: Cleveland has to find a way to get to the quarterback, plain and simple. Drafting a defensive end will address that need and add much needed pass rushing to a team that generally does not rack up many sacks. If the Browns opt to go defense in the first round, Da'Quan Bowers would be an interesting risk. If he pans out, he could be the best player in the draft.
CB: The Browns addressed this need by drafting rookie Joe Haden, but Cleveland lacks depth on the outside and could use a third cornerback. Eric Wright was a disappointment last year and having depth at CB is vital in the NFL.
LB: The job of the linebacker changes in a 4-3 scheme, so Cleveland could look to bolster its linebacker crop to add some more depth.
RB: Peyton Hillis is a gem, but he's going to need a speed back to complement him and give him some breaks on third down. Jerome Harrison was somewhat disappointing so I would not be surprised to see the Browns pick a running back in the middle portion of the draft.

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-- JESSE HEUSSNER
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