:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49295331/usa-today-9081701.0.jpg)
The lead-up to the NFL Draft each year is filled with rumors and speculation. The latest interesting tidbit comes from NFL.com's Lance Zierlein. It seems like the Cleveland Browns might be willing to trade down this year instead of taking a quarterback at No. 2 overall.
There is more & more smoke around Cleveland being willing to deal 2nd pick and draft QB in 2nd round. Something big will happen inside top 5
— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) April 12, 2016
It wouldn't be surprising to see the Browns chasing more draft picks. Cleveland was notoriously inactive in free agency this year. It seems like they're being really patient in their rebuilding process.
It's hard not to wonder if the Philadelphia Eagles might be the team who will make a deal to trade up. The list of Eagles trade up rumors has only been growing lately.
March 23 - An NFC executive thinks the Eagles will trade up to draft Carson Wentz.
March 24 - The Eagles are rumored to be one of four teams in play to trade up to the No. 1 overall pick.
April 4 - There's a 50% chance the Titans trade the No. 1 pick and Eagles could be in play.
April 5 - Doug Pederson reportedly loves Carson Wentz and the Eagles are trying to get him.
April 8 - Eagles inquired about moving up to the No. 1 overall pick.
April 11 - The Titans have a offer for the No. 1 pick and it's believed that it's from the Eagles.
Note that Zierlein was the one who reported earlier this offseason that the Eagles like Wentz and the Browns might be willing to move down. Here's what Zierlein reported, citing exact words from an NFL executive.
"Everyone thinks you have to move ahead of Cleveland, but (Browns Chief Strategy Officer Paul DePodesta) will want to get as many picks as possible out of this draft. It wouldn't surprise me if a team moved directly to Cleveland's spot for Wentz."
There's been thought that the Eagles might need to go to No. 1 overall because the Browns are expected to draft a quarterback. But if Cleveland is willing to move down, the Birds might only have to go up to No. 2. And getting to that spot could be important because the Cowboys are reportedly in the mix to draft a passer at No. 4. Moving up six spots from No. 8 won't be cheap for the Eagles, but it should be feasible.
Philadelphia has clearly been doing their homework on top quarterback prospects this offseason. They've worked them out privately along with inviting them to their facility. Whether or not the Eagles will trade up remains to be seen. All we know for sure is that they'll be making an informed decision either way.