Which 4 Cleveland Browns have the most to prove in opener?

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TAMPA, FLORIDA – AUGUST 23: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns passes during a preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on August 23, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

3. Eric Kush

Another player lost to the New York Giants in a trade was Kevin Zeitler. The former starting right guard was originally traded for defensive end Olivier Vernon, but after the OBJ trade, the terms were tweaked and it all kind of was made into one big mega-deal.

Either way, the Browns again were willing to give up a good player here to improve the roster as a whole. As good as Zeitler is, they needed the edge-rushing help even more.

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In 2018, there wasn’t much consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks outside of Myles Garrett. That’s why they brought in Vernon but it doesn’t mean they won’t miss what Zeitler brought to the table.

So far, replacing him hasn’t been easy. The plan seemed to be having 2018 second-round pick Austin Corbett step in and fill the void. However, he struggled mightily and before long names such as Kyle Kalis and Drew Forbes were thrown into the mix.

In the end, free-agent addition Eric Kush proved to be the guy as he starts Week 1 at right guard. There’s going to be a lot of pressure on him as every Cleveland fan will be watching him and praying he doesn’t become the weak link that ruins their promising season.

This first game won’t make or break his campaign but a good start would help build confidence, which is always a good thing to have.

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