Brownies DB's

[hooknladder]

Browns could start three rookies in the secondary

Posted by Michael David Smith on June 4, 2010 8:38 AM ET

The Cleveland Browns drafted cornerback Joe Haden seventh overall with the idea that he could start as a rookie. But Haden might not be the only rookie starting in the Browns' secondary.

 

In fact, three-fourths of the Browns' starting secondary could be rookies.

 

Browns coach Eric Mangini says he's open to starting two rookie safeties in T.J. Ward and Larry Asante.

 

"If they're the best guys, you may take some lumps early because they are rookies, but typically those guys continue to move up and excel," Mangini said, per Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

 

The Browns surprised some people when they chose Ward with the sixth pick in the second round of the draft even though quarterbacks Jimmy Clausen and Colt McCoy (whom the Browns would end up taking in the third round) were still available. So Cleveland obviously thinks highly of him.

 

Asante, a strong safety from Nebraska, was chosen late in the fifth round and would seem to be a long shot to start as a rookie. But he was a three-year starter in college, and Mangini apparently likes what he's seen from Asante so far.

[Bronco Billy]

Joe Haden is the real deal and ought to be better than what the Browns have at CB right now. even given his lack of experience. Ward lacks some coverage ability when faster savvy players line up in the slot, but he brings some big-hitting run support and is strong enough to match up with good TEs. I don't know enough about Asante to really make much comment.

 

If this story is true as shakes out as projected above, FFers will be licking their chops when their QBs go up against CLE. No matter how talented rookie secondary players are, NFL QBs are going to abuse them until they get some pro time under their belts.

[Tford]

I wonder how much of this comment is aimed at getting Abram Elam to back down on his contract demands....