Crabtree wants to join Browns, but is feeling mutual?

Texas Tech’s Michael Crabtree would love to play for the Browns, which would give the team at least one receiver who wants to be in Cleveland.

Crabtree made his feelings known to the Cleveland Plain Dealer after a recent visit with the Browns went well (according to Crabtree):

“I loved Cleveland and would love to play there,” Crabtree said in an e-mail. “It’s a team with great history and great fans who love football.

“[Browns coach Eric Mangini] is a great coach in this league with a lot of experience and I’d be excited to play for him.

“I was excited by the organization and the facilities. It would be fun to play there and I think they’re close to a championship level team.”

Plus, being the No. 5 overall pick in the draft means a touch more money, too. The Browns could have a glaring need at receiver if they deal Braylon Edwards and Donte’ Stallworth’s legal troubles affect his playing status.

But is the feeling between Crabtree, who’s recovering from foot surgery, and the Browns mutual?

Tony Grossi of the Plain Dealer cites team sources who say the Browns have crossed Crabtree off their draft board because of his diva attitude. Crabtree was described by some in the building as “not nice” during a recent visit.

The Browns have secured last-minute workouts for WRs Hakeem Nicks, Kenny Britt and Mohamed Massaquoi. Those three are expected to go in the bottom half of the first round, where the Browns could be picking if they do trade Edwards to one of the teams at the end of the order.

NFL.com’s panel of experts are in agreement, however, that the Browns will take Texas DE Brian Orakpo
at No. 5. Our panel has Crabtree landing in Oakland (at No. 7) or Jacksonville (at No. 8).

Crabtree chatted with NFL.com today, and he was asked about those conflicting reports about his visit to Cleveland.

“They’re just reports,” Crabtree said. “Who is to say if they were true or not. I had a good time when I met with Cleveland.”

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