Sav On Draft: Talks Up QBs, AP

Writes Grossi: Asked about a possible backlash from fans if the team passes on one of the top two quarterbacks, he said, "When you pick in the top five, you're not expecting on being up there again. Now that we're back up there this year, it changes your perspective on things to a degree."

Asked if the Browns can afford to trade up to No. 1 or No. 2, he did not say he wouldn't investigate the cost.

"I would sense it's going to be prohibitive because I think the two teams up there can ask for whatever they ask for. There's no real rules," Savage said.

Asked about rumors that Oakland may be leaning to Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson, which may push Russell within the Browns' reach, Savage replied, "I can see it happening. There are going to be those that argue he's the best player in the draft, so if you're sitting there at No. 1, I wouldn't rule it out."

What about Wisconsin left tackle Joe Thomas and Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson? Savage gave the impression - purposely, perhaps - that Peterson is higher on the Browns' radar screen.

Does Peterson's injury history concern Savage?

"I don't think so much," he replied. "I think he's a terrific talent. He's fast, he's physical. He's got acceleration. He's got burst. We've got Jamal [Lewis] on a one-year deal, so I don't think it takes us out of picking Adrian."

Could he find decent offensive linemen after the first round?

"I think there will be some linemen available that we like," Savage said. He then raised the example of the explosive San Diego Chargers, whose highest-drafted lineman was 2006 second-round pick Marcus McNeill.

"But they have a pretty good back behind those guys," Savage said, referring to LaDainian Tomlinson.