Browns Interested in Michael Crabtree?

In Eric Mangini's latest attempt to drag the Browns' franchise to the ground, it appears as though he's showing a strong interest in Michael Crabtree . Rumors have been flying around the past two weeks that Braylon Edwards will end up in Giants uniform by the time the draft is over, thus opening up a hole for Crabtree to fill.

There's no denying Crabtree's ability, but the decision to bring him to Cleveland is questionable. Why replace a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver with an unproven rookie?

The decision to draft Crabtree further brings into question Mangini's ability to identify talent on the defensive side of the football. The Browns clearly have one of the league's worst defenses, yet Mangini has done nothing to improve that side of the football. The most significant moves made on that side of the ball have been the additions of David Bowens and Eric Barton - both of which are clear downgrades from the recently departed Andra Davis and Willie McGinest. Logic would say the Browns need to draft a defensive player, perhps Brian Orakpo, Everette Brown or Aaron Maybin.

Further reason to pass on Crabtree is the lack of success by first-year receivers. Rookies typically have very little impact in the NFL, but receivers take longer to develop than any other position. Parting ways with Edwards and bringing in Crabtree would set the Browns offense back another three years - the time it generally takes a receiver to reach his full potential.

It would be a poor decision to draft Crabtree. He may develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver, but he's unlikely to help the Browns in the near future. This is a win-now league, and selecting a receiver in he top 10 is not a move that facilitates that goal.