Two quarterback-needy teams are taking a closer look at a signal-caller who's considered one of the most polarizing prospects in this year's draft.
The Browns and 49ers have held private workouts with Michigan State QB Connor Cook, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport.
The Browns hold the No. 2 overall pick in the draft, and need a quarterback arguably more than any team in the NFL. Cook is projected as a second-day (Rounds 2-3) draft pick, and presumably would be an option for the Browns only if they choose to go in another direction than quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick. Cleveland's second-day picks come at No. 32 overall (second round) and No. 65 overall (third round). The Browns were among the teams to meet with Cook when NFL clubs were in East Lansing, Mich., for his pro-day workout.
The 49ers were another, and their quarterback situation remains unsettled.
Ongoing trade discussions involving 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick have been reduced to interest from the Denver Broncos. However, talks are at an impasse for now, according to Rapoport, as Kaepernick has refused a pay cut to help make the trade happen, and the 49ers have declined to pay a portion of his salary as part of a trade.
Cook is among the draft's most talented passers and is projected by NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah to be chosen in the second round. However, questions about his intangibles have dogged him throughout draft season. San Francisco's second-round pick falls at No. 37 overall.
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