The Cleveland Browns upgraded the team's overall offense in the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday night. They used their ninth pick to sign offensive tackle Spencer Fano and snagged wide receiver KC Concepcion with their twenty-fourth pick.

Todd Monken, the new HC of the Browns, was quite enthusiastic about working with the team’s two picks in the first round. He revealed that the team had already planned to sign a tackle and a wide receiver during the draft, in no particular order.

“We were hopeful for WR-tackle, whatever order that came in. I think that was obvious to see when you look at the roster", he said. I’m really excited about the two picks we got.” Todd Monken said to Ken Carmen and Nathan Zengura, 92.3 The Fan hosts.

When asked what he liked about KC's game as a receiver, the new Browns head coach agreed with the hosts that KC "was built to separate".

At 5 foot-and-11 inches, KC Concepcion isn't the tallest player around. But what he lacks in size, he makes up for in speed. Gaining yards after catch is where the twenty-one-year-old WR has maximum potential. 

Moreover, KC Concepcion made history while playing for the Texas A&M Aggies. He became the first player to achieve a receiving touchdown, rushing touchdown, and punt return score, all in the same season.

Within the NFL circles, however, concerns rose over Cleveland's decision to pick KC. Many called him a risky choice, referring to the wide receiver's seven drops in his final season with the Aggies.

Monken did not seem fazed. He referenced the time KC made history with the Aggies as well, whom 92.3 The Fan had interviewed in the past.

"You spoke to the people at A&M. What an unbelievable practice player that he is, that energy, that juice that he brings to the team", Monken commented.

Monken further praised his dedication to the game, pointing out that the core Browns roster consisted of guys who loved to play football. He believes that KC would fit right in because of his love for football.

KC himself is well aware of the drop in his performance and addressed it during a recent conference call.

“I have had some drops. During the offseason, I am going to work nonstop so I can fix that”, KC said.

Concepcion’s first trip to the Cleveland Browns

KC Concepcion first travelled to Cleveland during his 30 Visit (teams allow 30 prospects in for a visit before the draft). It was also the first time he met the Browns' GM, Andrew Berry. Andrew told him, “I think it’s incredible what you’ve overcome in life. I hope you’re a Brown, and if not, I sure hope in the NFC.”

KC had sent a letter to every NFL manager about the stuttering problem he had. Having faced bullying during his childhood due to his stutter, KC tried to become an inspiration to others. He refused to skip media sessions despite feeling anxious about speaking.

Along with his versatility as a player, his determination to overcome his speech impediment was also a quality Andrew found inspiring.

The Cleveland Browns general manager broke character in his bid to bag KC. In his seven years as GM, not once has he ever drafted a wide receiver before the third round.

“I’d say KC is a bonus because it’s certainly great if you can get the ball players who can do both”, he said.

The pieces are falling into place. KC Concepcion is a Brown now and has found his way back to Cleveland.

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit