Former Browns LG Eric Steinbach Signs with Miami Dolphins
At one point, left guard Eric Steinbach helped anchor the Cleveland Browns’ offensive line with left tackle Joe Thomas. There is no doubting his importance in the development of Thomas and the quick maturation of center Alex Mack.
In fact, Some of the team’s offensive demise can be attributed to the back injury that sidelined Steinbach for the entire 2011 season. That injury – which required surgery – came after he played in all 16 games in 2009 and 14 in 2008.
Because of that injury, the Browns decided it was time to part ways with Steinbach. It took a while for him to sign with another team, but he finally agreed to one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins last week.
Oddly enough, it seems he’ll be competing for the right guard position with former Browns lineman Artis Hicks, who was part of the disappointing right tackle rotation in 2011.
The Browns didn’t think Steinbach had much left in the tank, as they chose to stick with Jason Pinkston at the left guard position. It might have been worth a shot to kick the tires on the veteran, but the youth movement on the offensive line is truly in full effect.