Browns Reportedly “Covet” Oregon QB Marcus Mariota

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that the Browns “covet” Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota.

This comes after Rapoport mentioned earlier in the day that Cleveland has already spoke to teams drafting inside the Top 10 about possibly trading up.

According to Rapoport, the Browns have already spoken to the Redskins specifically about their No. 5 overall pick. However, this would require the Titans to pass on Mariota at No. 2 and for no one to trade up with the Jaguars and Raiders for the Heisman Trophy winner.

Cleveland has two first-round picks at their disposal, which should enough to get them into the Top 10 in the event Mariota slides a few picks.

Last week, Tony Pauline of DraftInsider.net mentioned that the Browns are considered to be “front runners” and also the team working the hardest to trade up Mariota.

Sources tell Pauline that the Titans’ asking price for the No. 2 overall pick would require the Browns to part with their two first-round picks as well as their choice in the second round selection.

However, Cleveland reportedly is not willing to give up that much in return for Mariota.

Instead, the Browns would be willing to part with their two first-round picks for Maroita, but prefer to keep their second-round selection, as they’re hoping to add a receiver.

There are always more teams looking to trade back than those willing to move up, but all of this comes down to what the Titans elect to do at No. 2.

We’ll have more regarding the Browns possibly moving for Mariota as the news is available.