Cleveland Browns: Who will play left tackle?

Shon Coleman is the left tackle, for now

Last season Shon Coleman played right tackle. At the time, he was billed as the long term solution to a position that was in chaos since Mitchel Schwartz left for greener pastures.

Coleman’s strengths lie mainly in his run blocking. He demonstrated repeatedly the ability to maul defenders at the point of attack. He also did an adequate job of blocking at the second level. It was this penchant for run blocking that made him an attractive option for right tackle.

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His pass blocking left some to be desired. Coleman often struggled with his drops and hand placement. He would struggle to get back in his drops quick enough to run speed rushers around the edge and past the quarterback. He could withstand the bull rush but he sometimes struggled with defenders who could convert speed to power.

Coleman began OTA’s taking the first team reps at left tackle. This is not surprising as head coach Hue Jackson prefers veteran players at the top of the depth chart and forces rookie to play their way up.

If Coleman will be successful in playing left tackle this season, he will need to improve his pass blocking abilities. There were reports right after Joe Thomas’ retirement that Thomas has begun tutoring and mentoring Coleman to play the position.

Coleman may be the best option heading into the season. He has experience at the NFL level. However, he will need to adjust to being on the left side of the offensive line.