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LeBron James endorses USC QB Sam Darnold as potential No. 1 pick for Cleveland Browns

James also mentioned Penn State running back Saquon Barkley and Alabama defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick as players he likes.
Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

CLEVELAND -- With 27 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds, LeBron James turned in another masterful performance in the Cleveland Cavaliers' 107-102 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.

But as is often the case in Cleveland, it wasn't long until the conversation turned to football -- and in particular, the 2018 NFL Draft.

With NFL insider Adam Schefter serving as the sideline reporter for ESPN's broadcast of the Cavs' matchup with the Pelicans, James received an unlikely question in his postgame interview. Although he's often the one to break such news, Schefter asked James for his opinion on who the Cleveland Browns should select with the top pick in the draft next month.

"Listen, those guys have been in the war room a lot longer than I have," Jame said of the Browns' front office. "They've done an excellent job in the offseason."

Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

That, however, didn't stop James from hinting at who he thinks his hometown team should select.

"I keep seeing [USC quarterback] Sam Darnold's name for the No. 1 pick," he said. "I think they're gonna do what's best."

James isn't alone. Since declaring for the draft following his redshirt sophomore season, Darnold has consistently been linked to Cleveland. Last week, a large contingent from the Browns -- including team owner Jimmy Haslam -- attended the highly touted signal-caller's Pro Day in Southern California.

James' draft analysis didn't stop there, as he pointed out that the Browns also lay claim to the No. 4 pick in the draft, which will take place on April 26. And although he couldn't settle on one player, the 4-time MVP named a few prospects he wouldn't mind seeing come to Cleveland.

"We've got 1 and 4. There's a lot of great players in this draft," James said. "[Penn State running back] Saquon Barkley's one of them as well, [Alabama defensive back] Minkah Fitzpatrick. A lot of guys.

"Our Browns have done a great job so far, but there's a lot of great players in this draft and we've got a lot of picks so we'll see what happens."

Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Schefter then extended an invitation for James to join the ESPN crew for additional coverage on draft night, should the Cavs have a night off.

"Alright, Adam. I like that," James replied with a smile.

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