Cleveland Browns: 15 greatest offensive linemen of all-time

Greatest offensive lineman in Cleveland Browns history: #5. Joe DeLamielleure

As a player, Joe DeLamielleure probably should go a little higher on this list. However, he spent his first eight seasons in the NFL before joining the Browns for his final five. Because of that, he slides just a little, but was still one of the best offensive linemen to ever wear the orange and brown.

Originally drafted in the first round by the Buffalo Bills, DeLamielleure was there from 1973 through 1979. He was part of the big Buffalo offensive line that blocked for O.J. Simpson during his 2,003-yard season in 1973 — which was the first time a player eclipsed the 2,000-yard mark.

That historic offensive line was nicknamed the “Electric Company” and the Bills finished with a total of 3,088 rushing yards that year, which was the most ever during the era of the 14-game schedule.

In 1980, DeLamielleure was traded to Cleveland where he then became a part of the Kardiac Kids. He made history in 1982, as he helped block for NFL MVP Brian Sipe. DeLamielleure became the first player to ever clear the way for a 2,000-yard rusher and block for a 4,000-yard passer. During that MVP season for Sipe, the Browns were the best in the league in sack percentage and still had a 1,000-yard rusher.

When all was said and done, DeLamielleure had six Pro Bowls and was a six-time All-Pro First-Team selection. He finds himself in the Browns Ring of Honor as well as the Bills Wall of Fame. He was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.