5 Cleveland Browns that have disappointed in the first 8 games

Sep 22, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) stiff arms Cleveland Browns safety Grant Delpit (22) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) stiff arms Cleveland Browns safety Grant Delpit (22) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Browns, Jedrick Wills. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /

No. 1 – Jedrick Wills

The former 10th overall pick, Jedrick Wills, has continued to have ups and downs this 2022 season. In his third full NFL campaign, the Cleveland Browns expected big things from their left tackle. He was plagued with typical rookie issues in 2020, and then injury-plagued in 2021 which forced many to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Now fully healthy for all of 2022, there are still some gaping holes in his game. Wills continues to prove he is an elite run-blocking tackle, especially in outside zone plays where he has the ability to pull. He moves well and has the power and size to open holes. Setting an open field block vs. a linebacker as an NFL tackle is not easy, but Wills often gets the job done well.

The real struggle continues to be in pass protection. While he handles the bull rush okay at times, he really struggles with speed off the edge. What’s been more disappointing is the consistency in his play as well. One week you will think he is really coming along, and then one week later he will give up constant pressure and allow two sacks.

The good news is Bill Callahan is as good of an offensive line coach that exists, if anyone can improve his pass protection it’s him. The bad news, however, he hasn’t caught on after three years.

Next. 3 Defensive Players who Shined in Week 8. dark

With Jack Conklin likely on the move after this season and James Hudson set to replace him, Wills needs to have a good second half of the year to make sure his fifth-year option is picked up.