Leading up to the draft, we will look at potential draft eligible players that may be selected with the #12 pick.  This will act as your personal draft primer to get to know these guys.  Keep an eye on them in the upcoming Draft Combine and see if their draft stock rises or falls. If there is a player you want Spotlighted, please let us know.  For more exclusive inside information on these players, join us for our Draft Chats.

BROWNS 24/7 PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: 

MATHIAS KIWANUKA

Defensive End/Outside Linebacker
Boston College
Height: 6-7
Weight: 261
40-Time: 4.75

Scott Wright had this to say about the man they call 'Kiwi';  Mathias Kiwanuka could be Crennel's version of Willie McGinest in Cleveland. "Kiwi" is an imposing physical presence with excellent athleticism who excels at terrorizing opposing quarterbacks. Whether it be at defensive end or outside linebacker this is exactly the type of impact performer Crennel and the Browns defense needs. They could also use a stud nose tackle in the middle of their 3-4 scheme.  With some good young offensive talent already in place at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end it appears the Browns are on their way back and adding a top prospect like Kiwanuka will be another big piece of that playoff puzzle.

Strengths:
Excellent natural pass rusher who knows how to get upfield...Tremendous physical specimen...Is an outstanding athlete with good speed and quickness who moves well...Has a good frame with long arms and can easily add more weight...Very productive throughout his career and a player opponents must constantly be aware of...Smart and displays top intangibles...Still has a lot of upside.

Weaknesses:
Doesn't always play with good leverage due to his height...Will get pushed around due to his lack of strength and bulk...Has trouble shedding blocks...Still sub par as a run defender...Needs to develop additional pass rush techniques...Doesn't always play up to his talent and abilities...There is a chance he might have to move to outside linebacker at the next level...Might have a high "bust" factor.

Notes:
Grandfather Benedicto Kiwanuka was elected Uganda's first prime minister in 1961 and then later assassinated by Idi Amin in 1972...Is very proud of his Ugandan heritage...Similar to Simeon Rice when he came out...Still has some question marks but the physical tools are there for him to be a premier pass rusher in the pros.

OFFICIAL BIO