Cleveland Browns: Harrison had struggles, but could be left tackle of the future

It wasn’t ideal the way he became the starter at left tackle, but Desmond Harrison flashed some potential in his first game with the Cleveland Browns

There were penalties and missed blocks that led to pressure early for Desmond Harrison in his first start with the Cleveland Browns, which makes it easy to say it was a disaster. However, the undrafted free agent had some bright spots in the game as well

It looked as though there were definitely some jitters out of Harrison — including a false start on their first drive. Yet, not all was on him as the coaching staff did him few favors.

Harrison was named the starter after not taking a snap with the first team throughout camp and the preseason. After using Joel Bitonio at left tackle that entire time, head coach Hue Jackson switched things up.

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Bitonio was moved back to left guard and Harrison was inserted. To be fair to Jackson and the coaches, they were trying to get their five best on the field.

We just had to know it would cause a few problems — and even Bitonio needed some time as he had a false start penalty just before Harrison did on that first third-down try for the Browns.

The good news for the Browns was Harrison’s improvement throughout the game. He started to play better and wasn’t giving up as many pressures. He was also praised after the game by his head coach and teammates who saw improvement as the game went on.

"“He did a good job of kind of getting through that first half and then kind of settling in. That’s going to take some time. It is our job as a unit, and as an offensive line unit, to do whatever we can to get him as comfortable as possible early in games and then let him continue to be comfortable throughout the game.” — Browns center J.C. Tretter said about Harrison’s play"

Harrison was undrafted after playing for West Georgia. He had off-field concerns that cost him a chance to play for Texas and left him available when all seven rounds of the 2018 NFL Draft were over.

Needing to replace Joe Thomas at left tackle, Cleveland brought in Harrison to see what he could bring. So far, it looks like he could have been a steal.

Cleveland plans to continue to start Harrison — who was slowed in camp thanks to a foot injury. If he keeps showing positive steps in his progression, they could have their left tackle of the future in place.