2009 NFL Draft Recap - Day 1

With the 21st pick in the draft (after multiple trades), the Cleveland Browns have taken Cal's very own Alex Mack to lead their offensive line.

You can watch the pick here on the NFL Network.

My thoughts? Really, really good situation for Mack.


I was fairly confident that Mack would be the first center taken in the draft, but given how rarely centers go in the first round, I thought his best shot was falling to Pittsburgh at the end of the first round. Yet this first round has been a bit unusual for various reasons (Raiders...I can't even begin to think about what to say to you), and Mack gets drafted about as high as you could expect from a center on draft day. You've got to think the big man is absolutely ecstatic. Good things come to those who wait.

A lot of Cleveland fans and NFL Drafts analysts are likely to see this as a reach pick. I certainly wouldn't argue with that in terms of traditional drafting strategy, as quality centers can be found in the second round.

However, Mack is good enough to start Day One in the pros, and is tough enough to anchor an offensive line for the next ten years. He's a great addition for any team, and him and Joe Thomas should begin to ensure that the Browns begin building the formula for a solid offensive line.

Cleveland fans might be bummed, but I promise you that you will not be sorry.