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Have the Cleveland Browns built a strong foundation?

By Dan Justik

CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 04: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the National Anthem prior to the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 04: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the National Anthem prior to the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TX – DECEMBER 02: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass in the second quarter under pressure by D.J. Reader #98 of the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on December 2, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – DECEMBER 02: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass in the second quarter under pressure by D.J. Reader #98 of the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on December 2, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

Quality Offensive Linemen (3): Joel Bitonio, J.C. Tretter, Kevin Zeitler

The Cleveland Browns offensive line has had its ups and downs this season, but has significantly improved since Kitchens became the team’s offensive coordinator. But since the beginning of the season, the interior of the Browns offensive line have been the most consistent and the best players for the group.

Joel Bitonio and Kevin Zeitler are two of the best guards in the NFL, and they are both incredible in pass blocking. The two have only allowed 18 total pressures combined in 2018, allowing only two sacks. Pro Football Focus has graded Zeitler as the best pass blocking guard in the league, with Bitonio right behind him as the second best.

J.C Tretter is also at the top of the list in Pro Football Focus’ pass blocking grades, as he has allowed only 11 pressures this season. Tretter was graded as the sixth best overall center in the league and the fifth best pass blocking center.

Not only do the Browns have quality linemen in the interior of the offensive line, but they have three of the best at their positions. Protecting Mayfield is the No. 1 priority, and they have the men up front to do just that.

Next. Browns coaching search has no easy answers. dark

Overall Foundation

The organization has done a great job of building talent in every facet of the roster. They have addressed almost every part of Jeremiah’s checklist, meaning that they have built a strong foundation to their roster. If the front office can find one more offensive play-maker and add more talent at offensive tackle, the Browns are in a position to be competitive for a long time.

For more grades, advanced statistics and more at Pro Football Focus, subscribe
to PFF’s EDGE or ELITE subscriptions at ProFootballFocus.com.

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