The delay of the draft in 2014 was never more apparent as it was when time came for commissioner Roger Goodell to dramatically make his way to the podium to make the announcement of the number one overall selection. Fans all over could be heard letting out a sigh of relief as pre-draft drama was exchanged for historical fact. Jadeveon Clowney will forever be a first overall pick and Houston's defensive line will be a force to be feared in years to come.
In a twist like could be seen in the movie Draft Day, the Cleveland Browns trade the #4 overall pick to the Buffalo Bills. Immediately putting to bed rumors that they would be selecting Sammy Watkins. The Bills come into the #4 slot to fill a big need on offense by getting the most dynamic WR in Sammy Watkins. The trade only cost Buffalo their 9th, 109th pick in 2014 as well as their first round pick in 2015. Smart first move by Ray Farmer. Grabbing one more pick this year to add depth later on in the draft. Only problem is, the Browns turn around and trade their 9th pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for their 8th pick. The extra pick gained just minutes before is lost to the Viking just to move up to #8.
With the 8th pick in the 2014 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns (finally) select CB Justin Gilbert. The Browns are completely justified in moving back to take Gilbert because a #4 pick for him would be a bit too high. Gilbert is considered by many as the best at his position in the draft. He has a very high ceiling and possesses prototypical size (6'0" 202lbs) and speed (4.37 40 yard dash). This pick instantly upgrades the secondary. Gilbert is deserving of a top ten pick with his raw abilities, superb feet and agility. Browns fans should be happy.
With the first pick, Cleveland bypasses the hype of Watkins to address a serious need. A CB was needed to be taken in the first round to pair with Joe Haden, however this could have been addressed at #26. You can't blame them too much for wanting the best corner instead of the 3rd or 4th best. What is most confusing is why the Browns elected to move up from 9th to 8th to get Gilbert. They must have really been impressed with him to not be able to wait one pick to get him. Overall a top CB was taken and it can be completely justified because it filled a major hole on defense although I believe the second trade with the Vikings was completely unnecessary.