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Who Are the 5 Best Tackles Drafted by the Cleveland Browns?

By Christopher Markoch

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 23: Tackle Joe Thomas #73 of the Cleveland Browns blocks during a game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 23, 2012 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 34-12. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 23: Tackle Joe Thomas #73 of the Cleveland Browns blocks during a game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 23, 2012 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Browns 34-12. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

2. Joe Thomas, 2007, Round 1

The Cleveland Browns have 16 players currently in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Number 17 will be Joe Thomas who wore number 73. Joe Thomas didn’t just start every game in his Hall of Fame career. He never missed a snap. Thomas has the NFL record of 10,363 snaps.

If you’ve looked at the list prior to Thomas, you see a theme of durability and longevity. Thomas not only lived up to that rich tradition, but he also surpassed it in a way that will likely never be seen again.

Thomas was the Browns first-round draft choice in 2007 and the third overall pick in that year’s draft. He was named to the Pro Bowl in every season except for his last one in 2017. That season was cut short by the triceps injury that ended his consecutive snaps streak and ultimately his career. Thomas was also a six-time first-team All-Pro.

If there is anything bittersweet about the career of Joe Thomas is that his first season was the only season that the Browns had a winning record. But I also think that is one of the most remarkable testaments to Thomas and his quiet leadership.

With so many reasons to take a game off, he didn’t. And not only did he not miss a game, but he also didn’t miss a snap.

Canton awaits you Mr. Thomas. And I can’t wait to see you there.

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