Making a Case for Patrick Peterson

In the Blawg Pound Draft Board, we have LSU defensive back Patrick Peterson listed as a Who We Like. And, to be honest, we're liking him more and more.

Some blog readers have pointed out Peterson's flexibility to play both corner and safety as a key reason for the Browns to take him at No. 6.

We were impressed with both Joe Haden and TJ Ward last season, and the Browns could solidify their defensive backfield by choosing Peterson.

Peterson is built like a safety, has the speed of a corner and is an elite playmaker.

Here’s the official description on Peterson from the NFL Combine website:

Strengths: Peterson is a monster corner with good speed. Possesses terrific footwork and the hip fluidity to mirror in man coverage. Displays a strong press and uses his hands to effectively reroute receivers. Smooth athlete that tracks the ball well in the air and has the body control and hands to make interceptions. Willing tackler with sound technique. .

Weaknesses: Does not have elite recovery speed and will not always close the gap when the ball is in the air. Over aggressive player that can be beat by play action and double moves. Struggles at times anticipating routes. Lacks the ability to consistently shed blocks in run support.

Flexibility and being able to play multiple positions is not only valuable later in the season when injuries are typically mounting, but is priceless when a growing team is in need of depth. As one Blawg Pound fan pointed out, picking Peterson would allow the Browns to bring in Eric Wright as a nickel back.

Though Eric Wright had a rough season last year, he has shown promise with pretty good seasons in his prior seasons.

In recent years, teams have had free will to do whatever they want against the Browns — pass and run. Solidifying the backfield with a top round pick would finally reduce the options opposing teams have against our beloved Browns.

The Browns could become known as the team you cannot pass on.

This same Blawg Pound fan says, "Not to mention, if the back field can cover people man-to-man, it frees up the entire front seven, which indirectly helps the run game or at minimum makes it easier for a less talented growing group to stop the run and/or rush the passer."

What do you think — are you still sold on a wide receiver with the No. 6 pick, or would you consider Peterson?

Go Browns!