Kendall Lamm should be Cleveland Browns RT for the rest of the season

The Cleveland Browns have had issues on the offensive line all season, and Kendall Lamm showed Week 14 he should start the final games at right tackle.

The offensive line has been at the crux of the Cleveland Browns issues for the 2019 season, and they were put into a bind Week 14 against the Cincinnati Bengals. With Chris Hubbard dealing with a knee injury, Kendall Lamm started at right tackle for the Browns.

Hubbard has arguably been the biggest single issue on the offensive line this season, especially when in pass protection. Baker Mayfield has been forced to scramble to his right often because of Hubbard allowing pressure upfield.

In 11 games this season, Hubbard has allowed 31 total pressures, including five sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. He has also been called for eight penalties, the most on the offensive line. It is clear Hubbard has had his issues at right tackle this season. And it was evident when Lamm took the field against the Bengals.

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The Browns offensive line had their best performance against the Bengals, and head coach Freddie Kitchens acknowledged that following the game. With Lamm at right tackle, Mayfield did not have to worry about much from his front side. According to Scott Patsko of Cleveland.com, Lamm allowed only one pressure.

"Pro Football Focus gave Lamm the lowest pass-blocking grade among the offensive linemen, although it was still a respectable 71.2. He gave up one quarterback pressure (a hurry) and didn’t have a penalty. It was the only pressure allowed by the starting offensive line. – via Patsko of Cleveland.com"

Although Carlos Dunlap is not a prolific pass rusher, Lamm did not let Dunlap affect the pass game. He may not have been as solid blocking for the run, but keeping Mayfield upright and in the pocket is what the Browns need. Mayfield’s performance may not have reflected that, but the Browns need to limit as many pressures as possible in the final games of the season.

Hubbard may be a high-paid tackle, but after Lamm’s performance against the Bengals, it is clear the Browns should play Lamm and see if he can continue his solid play. If Mayfield does not have to worry about pressure from both sides, it should help elevate his play, as well as the passing attack.

The Browns have been looking at answers on the offensive line, but with Lamm dealing with an injury for most of the season, he was not an option. It took Hubbard suffering an injury as well for Lamm to get his chance, but it looked like he may have been the answer the Browns needed at right tackle.

Lamm should be the starting right tackle for the final three games of the season. With Hubbard a limited participant leading up to the Cardinals game, Lamm seems likely to get another start. However, it should be a permanent move for the rest of the season.