Cleveland Browns: Which offensive rookies will make the team?
By Joel W. Cade
Shon Coleman
The Cleveland Browns selected Shon Coleman with the 13th pick in the third round. Coleman is an amazing story of survival. He spent two years out of football battling lymphoblastic leukemia. Upon his return he eventually won the starting left tackle position at Auburn. He earned second team All-SEC Honors last season.
His strengths are in the running game. He possesses a mean streak. He uses his arm length and size to create movement at the point of attack, and understands the need for leverage in run blocking. Pass blocking is another story. Like most rookies coming out of a spread system, Coleman tends to bend at the waist, thereby losing balance, making him an easy target for NFL pass rushers. He will have to improve his pass blocking technique in order to succeed in the NFL.
Coleman should thrive in Jackson’s offense. A move to right tackle where he can utilize his mean streak and road grater blocking abilities gives him an opportunity to start day one. The offense’s emphasis upon quick passes will give Coleman a fighting chance in the pass game where he will need to improve greatly.
The Browns were supposed to have one of the best offensive lines last season. However, with the loss of Mitchell Schwartz, the position of right tackle is open for competition. Thus far, Coleman missed all of rookie and mini-camp recovering from surgery for a torn MCL. This has given Alvin Bailey a head start for the right tackle position. Once healthy, Coleman will be in the mix for the starting right tackle position.
Verdict: Coleman either starts at right tackle or makes the team as a developmental project.
Next: The rookie QB