The 2016 NFL Draft has the chance be historic from a local perspective. Not only will the Browns again be seeking a franchise quarterback under a new regime, but it could be a record-setting draft for Ohio State and a memorable one for the University of Akron and Walsh Jesuit High School.
The Buckeyes set the record with 14 players drafted in the 2004 draft and the University of Miami set the record for first-round picks with six in the same draft. Ohio State has a chance to challenge both of those marks.
■ The Buckeyes are almost certain to have at least five players (Joey Bosa, Ezekiel Elliott, Darron Lee, Taylor Decker and Eli Apple) selected in the first round and there are three more players (Vonn Bell, Braxton Miller and Michael Thomas) who are viewed by some draft experts as potential first-rounders.
■ In addition, Nick Vannett, Jalin Marshall, Adolphus Washington, Cardale Jones, Joshua Perry, Tyvis Powell and Chase Farris could hear their names called during the three-day draft.
University of Akron linebacker Jatavis Brown is also considered a strong possibility to be drafted, with experts saying he could go as high as the third round.
Walsh Jesuit’s former quarterback Connor Cook of Michigan State is expected to be drafted late in the first round or early in the second round and could be a target of the Browns.
■ Also, former Walsh Jesuit standouts Ross Martin (kicker), Drew Kaser (punter) and Adam Redmond (lineman) could be considered during the draft and are expected to at least end up on NFL rosters as free agents after the draft.
Draft day
When: First round: 8 p.m. Thursday. Second and third rounds: 7 p.m. Friday. Fourth through seventh rounds: noon Saturday.
Where: Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University in Chicago.
TV: ESPN, ESPN2 and NFL Network.
Browns’ picks (12 total): First round (No. 8 overall), second (No. 32), third (Nos. 65 and 77), fourth (Nos. 99, 100 and 138), fifth (Nos. 141, 172 and 173), sixth (No. 176) and seventh (No. 233).
Inside
■ Beat writer Nate Ulrich analyzes the possible draft scenarios for the Browns. Page C1.
■ Read a profile of Memphis quarterback Paxton Lynch, a potential Browns target. Page C1.
■ Columnist Marla Ridenour offers her draft wish list. Page C3.
■ View Nate Ulrich’s mock draft, and see if you agree. Page C3.
Online: For more coverage and stories on some of these players, visit ohio.com/browns.