David Veikune Drafted by Browns

David Veikune was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round of the NFL Draft.

University of Hawaii defensive end David Veikune today received news of his stroke of good fortunate at, of all places, a golf course.

Veikune said he was on the 13th hole when he received his dream call: the Cleveland Browns selected him in the second round, the 52nd player overall.

"It's a great feeling," Veikune said. "It's such a relief."

Veikune said his father became emotional. Veikune then received a kiss from his girlfriend.

"It's awesome," Veikune said.

Here's some quotes from Veikune from the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Veikune started only one season at Hawaii at left end. He's been described as a "weight room warrior" and will be a project to convert to outside linebacker in Mangini's 3-4 scheme. The coach also believes Veikune has the versatility to play at inside linebacker.

"I was a player that played everything, whatever the coaches wanted," Veikune said from Honolulu. "Nose guard, D-end ... just a relentless player who doesn't take a play off, gets to the quarterback and makes big hits."

Some analysis from The Sporting News.

Scout's take: Veikune helped himself at the Senior Bowl, where he had his first chance to play elite talent and he held his own. He shows a good first step off the snap and is a classic hardworking overachiever who will play beyond his athletic skills.

Correspondent's take:
How he fits: David Veikune was a 4-3 end at Hawaii but will be an outside linebacker in Cleveland's 3-4. He is a late bloomer who was born in Alaska and didn't play a lot of football early on. He didn't start until his senior year with the Warriors. He has so-so speed in relation to his draft position, but Browns scouts like his relentless motor. He may have been a reach, but he shows the kind of hunger the new Browns regime wants to mix into the team. When he'll play: The Browns can afford to experiment with Veikune in the preseason and allow him to focus on playing special teams at first. They hope he can work his way into a rotation while learning the nuances of a 3-4. He figures to be coachable and has the upside to be a starter down the road.

Congrats to Veikune!