Pro Football Focus down on Cleveland Browns offensive line

PFF is skewed in their analysis of the Browns

The problem with PFF’s analysis of the Browns offensive line is twofold. First, they overvalue the role of right guard within the offensive line itself. Second, they approach the season as a whole instead of recognizing the statistical split in offensive line play.

Kevin Zeitler is a great player. For a team like the New York Giants who needs better offensive line play, he is a perfect fit. Not sure it was wise to trade away an accomplished pass rusher (a position that does impact wins and losses) in Olivier Vernon for an interior offensive lineman. But as a Browns fan, I am not complaining.

But PFF seems to find fault with the Browns offensive line due to the loss of Zeitler. Yes, Zeitler will be missed. But PFF’s analysis seems to put undue emphasis upon Zeitler’s departure. It is out of character from their general approach to offensive line analysis.

PFF also seems to miss the impact of the symbiotic relationship between offensive line efficiency and the overall quality of the skill groups within the offense. The Browns offensive line efficiency dramatically improved when the scheme changed under Freddie Kitchens.

This dramatic increase might be difficult for PFF to handle as they often look at overall season statistics. But that was not how the Browns season played out. It was a very uneven season, much to Browns fans’ delight.

Browns fans should not be worried about a 20th ranking by PFF for the offensive line. There are certainly other factors involved in ranking offensive lines as well as factors that determine an offensive line’s efficiency.