Cleveland Browns: 4 thoughts on the state of the offensive line

1. Joel Bitonio has potential to be a great left guard

As someone who resides near Troy, Ohio, I can never pass up an opportunity to talk about Troy’s very own Kris Dielman. Lucky for me, Hal Hunter loves to compare Joel Bitonio to the Troy High School graduate.

Hopes are high for left guard Bitonio who is entering his third season with the Browns. His play in Kyle Shanahan’s zone scheme brought him recognition in his first season. He struggled last season due the coaches’ inability to settle on a scheme.

However, Hal Hunter, during his June 9 press conference, described a bright future for the left guard.

"“In the past I have coached the best left guard in the league in San Diego when Kris Dielman was my left guard. He was a perennial All-Pro. I have talked to Joel about patterning his game after Kris Dielman. He has a lot of the same characteristics.”"

Dielman was a competitive guard with a mean streak. As the Browns transition to a power run scheme, the offensive line will need to become aggressive at the point of attack with a determined mean streak. Sounds like Hunter is already giving Bitonio the blueprint for success.

"“Joel has real legitimate toughness. He is smart and competitive. And he can move his feet and run. Can he be a Kris Dielman type player? Yes. But he knows he’s not where he needs to be yet.”"

If Joel Bitonio can successfully pattern his game after Kris Dielman, he can become a perennial All-Pro. Hunter has found a way to motivate Bitonio to reach his potential. Can he do the same to solidify the center position with Cam Erving?

Next: Can Erving have success in 2016?