Browns desperate to draft Peterson

According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, someone "well-connected" with the Browns has convinced him that they want Adrian Peterson desperately.

We are still a long way from the draft and this could be a smokescreen, but the top of the draft is starting to take shape. The Raiders are rumored to want JaMarcus Russell, the Lions - Joe Thomas and now the Browns - Peterson.

Troy Smith wants the Browns to draft him

Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith is lobbying his hometown team to select him in April's NFL draft.

"Hopefully, I'll get a chance to represent you guys at the next level with the Cleveland Browns," Smith said at Tuesday night's Greater Cleveland Sports Awards.

Smith's draft stock has fallen after a poor BCS game and an unimpressive Senior Bowl. His draft projections are now all over the map, from the second to fifth round. While there is no way he'll be selected with the Browns' first round pick, he could be an option with their later round picks.