Cleveland Browns: 5 players flying under the radar
By Joel W. Cade
5. Shon Coleman
Shon Coleman enters his second season as a starter in the NFL. When he came out of Auburn, he was not ready to play in the NFL. After a year of sitting and learning, he was able to beat out Cameron Erving to win the right tackle position.
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His first year at right tackle was a struggle. He struggled with penalties as he was one of the most penalized players in the NFL.
His troubles began with his ability to anticipate the snap. When he failed to anticipate he was slow off the ball. Being slow off the ball put him in a bad position to block defenders. As a result, he would be forced to hold to maintain his blocks. Conversely, when he was attempting to anticipate the snap, he would often get off sides penalties. If he can figure out how to anticipate the snap count, he will be in better position and the penalties should take care of themselves.
Coleman’s contribution next season will directly impact the win and loss record. After Joe Thomas was injured, Spencer Drango was put in a difficult position to fill in at left tackle. Everyone witnessed how poorly that went. Should Coleman be able to stabilize the position, he could positive impact the way Browns quarterbacks are able to play the game.
Also, his stability at the position will give newly drafted Austin Corbett an opportunity to sit for a year and develop. This may be the biggest contribution Shon Coleman could make for the Browns in 2018.