In the first round of last week’s 2017 NFL Draft, the Browns took Michigan safety Jabrill Peppers with the 25th overall pick.

During the run-up to the Draft there was a lot made about where he’d get drafted, as well as what position he’d ultimately play at the next level. Given his versatility displayed at UM, it was a fair question.

DBN caught up with Anthony Broome of SB Nation’s Michigan affiliate, Maize N Brew, to try and get a clearer picture on just what kind of player the Browns are getting in Jabrill Peppers.

1. I'll start with the obvious, what do you see as his most natural fit position-wise in the NFL?

So much was made about where this guy is going to play in the NFL. He is a strong safety to me. He is not the best in coverage, though he has the attitude and athletic traits to succeed where he gets put assuming it’s a full-time role and people are patient. As someone you can let loose and tell to get into the backfield, the Browns should be able to do that.

2. By all accounts, people love this kid. He seems like an engaging young man, and a great locker room guy. Is this one of his greatest attributes?

Peppers had a lot of hype coming out of high school into Michigan, so much so that it was nearly impossible to back up. It would have been so easy to buy into it, but he has as much of an edge and confidence to him as any player I've ever covered and been around. He is beloved by teammates and he has a great attitude. It would not shock me in the least to see him emerge as a captain in the NFL one day.

3. He'll likely be tasked with punt returns, but do you see the Browns utilizing him on offense at all? And if so, is that a good or bad idea?

As special as an athlete as Peppers is, anything more than punt and kick returns would be detrimental to his development, in my opinion. I think he was stretched a bit thin at Michigan because he did so many things and played so many snaps. Let him develop at one position and live with what he gives you early on. The occasional offensive snap in the NFL could be interesting, but focusing on one role would be best.

4. Regardless of his position, scouts question his instincts and ball skills, is that fair?

There is definitely some work to do there. Detractors have pointed to his 1 career interception as proof that he is not a ballhawk, but again, he has never really been asked to be that. He played safety/nickel corner two seasons ago and linebacker in 2016. As I said before, with NFL coaching, he should improve there. He may not be Ed Reed, but he should still be a good player.

Head on over to Maize N Brew to check out their recap of Jabrill’s time at Michigan, it’s a good read.

And many thanks again to Anthony for taking time to answer my questions!