In recent days, there’s been a growing chorus of voices proclaiming that the Cleveland Browns are really keen on Wyoming quarterback, Josh Allen, and could take him instead of Sam Darnold out of USC.
This was seen by some at first to be perhaps nothing more than a smokescreen. But more and more, these reports are emerging.
On Tuesday, speaking with Fran Duffy of the Philadelphia Eagles’ official website, Lance Zierland of NFL.com said, “I’m getting more and more vibes that Sam Darnold is not gonna be the first pick. Josh Allen is not just smoke. It’s a very real thing. People I’m hearing this from, I trust.”
Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network also said something similar on Monday.
Just now on NFL Network, @MoveTheSticks said that "people that know people inside the Browns" fully expect Josh Allen to be the pick at No.1.
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) April 9, 2018
So, clearly, this isn’t just a rumor floating around. Many people who cover the NFL have been saying the Browns are enamored with Allen’s potential and could go with the riskier option at No. 1 overall, rather than Darnold, who is a “safer” pick.
This has Browns fans freaking out.
https://twitter.com/CLEdiehard/status/983777518917443585
https://twitter.com/DeshawnTheLand/status/983781716098723846
— Craig Evers (@craigevers) April 9, 2018
— 🏰🛡Medieval Gridiron🏈🎮 (@MG_Dynasty) April 9, 2018
Allen has a 56% chance of coming to Cleveland. 56% chance is definitely Not good.
— kel (@kellkill1) April 9, 2018
— AB (@byrum111317) April 10, 2018
Because I'm watching muppet babies I thought this gif is appropriate.
Browns will forever be the Browns if this happens pic.twitter.com/Nv6LkCqPjj— Mr.mpk (@M_PorterKnowles) April 9, 2018
https://twitter.com/santini73/status/983510710725509120
— Drew (@saveferrisordie) April 10, 2018
Clearly, this pick would not resonate well with many Browns fans, who have a long, long history of being disappointed with their team, specifically as it relates to repeated failures at the quarterback position.