Austin Corbett’s Relationship With Joel Bitonio
By Mitch Zoloty
Austin Corbett’s future as Joe Thomas’ replacement could be helped by his chemistry with new Cleveland Browns teammate Joel Bitonio
Once Cleveland Browns all-time great Joe Thomas retired, the Browns strongest position quickly became one of their weakest. The left tackle position is now open for grabs for the first time since Joe put on a Browns jersey.
To address this need on the offensive line, the Browns have added Chris Hubbard and Donald Stephenson through free agency. They have also added one more familiar face to the mix in Austin Corbett.
It’s All About Chemistry
With the 33rd pick in the draft, the Browns selected offensive tackle Austin Corbett, from Nevada. Corbett already has chemistry with Joel Bitonio, who could be lining up next to him come week one against the Steelers.
Browns open round two by taking Nevada OL Austin Corbett, who trains with former Nevada teammate and now current Cleveland teammate Joel Bitonio.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 27, 2018
The most underrated quality that attributes to the greatness of an offensive line unit is the chemistry shared between the five inemen on the field. The best lines have a core of guys who know how each other play and trust each other.
Corbett having this relationship with Bitonio will give him the edge against his competition for the newly opened position on the line. This will also make his transition into the NFL much easier.
Having a great veteran next to a rookie helps breed a culture of dominant offensive line play, and helps the rookies adapt to the NFL. Bitonio will be a great mentor for Corbett to have, like how Joe Thomas was a mentor to him.
Austin Corbett said he idolized Joel Bitonio when he was redshirt freshman at Nevada and it'll be crazy to play next to him
— Nate Ulrich (@ByNateUlrich) April 27, 2018
Corbett has had high praise for Bitonio, which is a great sign of their relationship. Anyone who has been in a part of a good football team, no matter the level, knows that the senior leaders and vets are like older brothers to the younger guys. The seniors help bring the young guys along.
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This relationship already instilled in the Bitonio-Corbett dynamic will help bring the Browns success. Lining the two up next to each other will be the Browns best solution to replacing Joe Thomas.