NFL Draft has Football Fans Fired Up; Locals Like Patrick Peterson for Cleveland Browns

So who's excited about the NFL draft Thursday? Plenty of people, including the Strongsville Browns Backers.

The group, a chartered chapter of Browns Backers Worldwide, is hosting a party from 7-10 p.m. Thursday, April 28 at , 15323 Pearl Rd. in Strongsville, to watch the first round.

Admission is free and the restaurant is offering $5 pizzas and $2 Bud Lights in honor of the occasion. The group welcomes new members, so anyone can stop by.

Josh Jeffi, president of the group, is hoping the Browns look for a defensive player.

"I really see the Browns drafting someone on the defensive side of the ball.  If you look at the players they released before the lockout, majority were on defensive, not to mention starters on defense," Jeffi said. "There is a chance they draft a wide receiver, but with the more pressing need on defense, I believe they will go that route."

He said feedback on Facebook and Twitter indicates the player Browns fans want most is Patrick Peterson, a defensive back from Louisiana State University.

"I have to agree. If he is still there, he is the player I want the Browns to draft," Jeffi said in an e-mail.

Some other thoughts from the Strongsville Browns Backers' Facebook page:

Dave Burfield: D-line, whoever is best. Joe Thomas was my favorite draft pick in a long time. OL and DL, build the trenches!!

PrimeTime Sports: Patrick Peterson, but I have a feeling the Browns will take a WR if they are there at 6. I agree the Browns need D-line bad but, coach Shurmur is an offensive coach. Should be interesting!!

Browns Backers of Tampa Bay: Patrick Peterson