A source tells Ian Rapoport of NFL Media that Penn State RB Saquon Barkley has worked himself into a position where he’s “firmly in the mix” to be selected by the Browns with the No. 1 overall pick this April.
Mike Garafolo truly believes Barkley is the Browns pick at No. 1 overall right now and they could wait until No. 4 to grab a quarterback. Garafolo adds that there’s “very strong buzz” that Cleveland likes Oklahoma QB Baker Mayfield.
Many expect the Browns to grab a quarterback to open the draft, but you could make the case that taking someone like Barkley or N.C. State DE Bradley Chubb at No. 1 overall and the best available quarterback at No. 4 could be the best way to approach the draft if there isn’t a lot separating the top quarterback prospects.
Everyone knew Barkley was an extremely talented player entering the draft process and his combine performance certainly didn’t disappoint.
On Friday, Barkley ran an official 4.40 forty at the Combine, put up 29 reps on the bench press and posted a vertical of 41 inches.
For what it’s worth, Barkley said he interviewed with the Giants, Broncos, Jets, Colts, Bucs, 49ers, Browns, while also completing “a lot” of informal meetings, per James Palmer.
Barkley, 21, is widely considered to be the best running back prospect in this year’s draft class and possibly the best prospect at the position in some time.
During his three-year college career, Barkley rushed for 3,843 yards on 671 carries (5.7 YPC) to go along with 102 receptions for 1,195 yards receiving and 51 total touchdowns. He also contributed 500 kick return yards and two touchdowns.
We’ll have more regarding the Browns and the No. 1 overall pick as the news is available.
Looking for the latest NFL Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow NFL Trade Rumors on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NFL News and Rumors for all 32 teams!
