Studies have shown that way too many economically disadvantaged people who win big lottery jackpots eventually end up right back where they started — that is, economically disadvantaged, with all the money gone.

 

They can’t handle their good fortune.

 

That’s kind of the story of the expansion-era Browns.

 

Countless times since they returned to the field in 1999, the Browns have had golden opportunities in the NFL Draft, either by having the No. 1 overall pick and/or a number of high selections, to really upgrade themselves, yet they have failed to capitalize on them. It’s why they have struggled so much on the field, with just two winning records and one playoff appearance in 18 seasons.

 

But never in the expansion era – and also never in the 50-year stint of the original franchise – have the Browns enjoyed what they have this time.

 

They have five choices in the top 65, including Nos. 1, 12 and 33 overall.

 

Indeed, it doesn’t much better than this. For that matter, it doesn’t get as good as this.

 

This is the draft lottery in the truest sense of the word. It is historic.

 

The Browns, of course, are coming off their worst season ever – regardless of the era – as they finished 1-15. They bottomed out. And considering that they’ve had a nearly two-decade stretch in which the bar has been set pretty low, that’s saying something.

 

But the Browns have all the wherewithal, and then some, to change that – to change the course of this franchise. There is absolutely no excuse for them failing to do so. It would be inexcusable and would, without question, cause the members of this regime to all get fired at some point.

 

One of the key steps along the way to the draft in two months is occurring now with the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. All the teams get an up-close and personal look at the top prospects. The clubs can’t make any purchases yet, but they can shop all they want.

 

We’ve said in previous years that that particular draft was the biggest one in team history, but this one really is.

 

Will the Browns finally figure it out and use all these assets as .. well, assets? Or will they go back to being poor again?

 

We’ll soon find out.