There are a lot of uncertainties that surround the Cleveland Browns defense and the team is expected to shore up some of those in the draft.

One area on defense the team will take a hard look at is the secondary. The Browns need to add some quality depth if they are to make a run at the playoffs.

Boise State junior standout CB Orlando Scandrick fits the Browns cornerback mold perfectly. He is a little-known player coming out of nowhere with tons of talent reminiscent of CB Leigh Bodden.

Scandrick is described as the truth when it comes to cover skills. He locks up receivers like a maximum security prison. Book 'em Danno! He is believed to possess blazing 4.3 speed in the 40-yard dash and is preparing to show that and more to NFL scouts at the Combine this week. The way I hear it, the virtual unknown is expected to set it off in Indy.

There are those who believe that Scandrick could be this year's Usama Young, who was drafted out of Kent State in the third-round by the New Orleans Saints, depending on how well he works out at the Combine.

Blessed with a superior scouting department, the Browns should have no problem discovering Scandrick's talents. The Browns are known for finding little-known prospects and drafting or signing them as undrafted free agents such as they did with Bodden and KR/WR Joshua Cibbs. Enough said.

According to a source, former defensive backs coach now defensive coordinator Mel Tucker may have had a conversation concerning Scandrick when he opted for the draft last month.

At 5-11, 195 pounds Scandrick is a big corner with outstanding speed, quickness and natural athletic ability. He's one tough hombre in coverage and in run support. He is not afraid to mix it up. Scandrick has great straight-line speed and ball skills. He played wide receiver all his life before coming to Boise State. He is most comfortable playing in man-to-man and press coverage. Teams rarely threw his way last season. Scandrick said he patterns his game after no one but studies Broncos Champ Bailey and Falcons DeAngelo Hall.

Scandrick also has value on special-teams, blocking four kicks in '07. He's a very smart player, and coachable. On the flip side, he must improve on overall consistency and become a better tackler by wrapping his man up. Bottom line? He's a true competitor with a tremendous upside.