Decisions, decisions, what is next for the Cleveland Browns at tackle?

Option 2 – NFL Draft

This is one of the deeper drafts in recent history when it comes to offensive tackle. Andrew Thomas of Georgia, Mekhi Becton of Louisville, Jedrick Wills of Alabama and Tristan Wirfs of Iowa are all viewed as top-10 picks. Obviously, nothing is known until the night of the draft, but there are scenarios where the Browns could have options with the No. 10 pick on which of the tackles they want.

The downside to this strategy is the chance of drafting a bust always exists, as Cleveland is well aware! Wirfs and Becton both shined at the Combine showing athleticism and strength, while Thomas and Wills will lean on playing against top-tier talent for multiple years in the SEC.

Becton and Wirfs are my favorites on draft night right now, as they have shined on both the tape and at the Combine. However, if Isaiah Simmons is around at No. 10 (highly unlikely), the Browns MUST take him!

Option 1 – Trent Williams

I got a lot of grief for liking the idea of pursuing Trent Williams, but I stand by looking to trade for the 31-year-old, seven-time Pro-Bowler. I certainly wouldn’t give up the No. 10 pick, as Williams only has one year remaining on his contract. But if the Browns could give up a second- or a third-round pick and a future late rounder, they should pull the trigger. Although Williams has had injuries, he has had a full year to rest after being what many consider a healthy scratch for all of 2019.

This could be a perfect scenario if the Browns can minimize the pieces they give up in a trade. The Browns will get a full year of Williams to see if he can stay healthy and perform. If he can’t stay healthy, let Williams walk after his contract expires. If he performs well and stays healthy then the Browns would have the option to sign Williams long-term. The only risk would be what they give up trading for him. Given his eagerness of wanting out and only having one year left on his deal, the Redskins will have little leverage with any trade partner which will help the Browns.

Dream Scenario?

Many will disagree, but if the Browns can give up a 2020 third-rounder and 2021 fourth-rounder for Williams, they should pull the trigger in a second. Unfortunately, the Redskins may get greedy. If that is the case, then draft the best available tackle on draft night. Wirfs may be the best option, as he has a high ceiling but may need some time to develop. In this scenario, Wirfs could study under Hubbard for half a season before likely taking his spot. The competition could serve Hubbard well, and hopefully, the upgrade to Bill Callahan as the offensive line coach will also increase productivity across the board.

While I don’t see the Browns wanting both Peters and Williams as they are both left tackles, there could also be a scenario where the Browns end up with Conklin at right tackle, Peters at left tackle and a rookie tackle taken at 10. This would require finding a way to dump Hubbard’s contract without much repercussion, but it wouldn’t be a horrible option heading into 2020. It will certainly be interesting to see if Andrew Berry shows the same aggression as John Dorsey seeking high-profile trades and free agents.