Comparing Cleveland Browns stars to Super Bowl Contenders

Browns Position Comparison No. 2 – Offensive Line

For the last three seasons, the Cleveland Browns have been getting applause from everyone about their “elite” offensive line. Part of the reason is that Bill Callahan (offensive line coach) is considered one of the best at the position. Secondly, the Kevin Stefanski offense is friendly to nearly all positions, including the offensive line with all the play-action and misdirection.

However, this offensive line was often exposed in passing situations. I will agree this unit is an elite running group, everyone is extremely athletic and block well in space. But, many of these guys struggle in pass protection with Jedrick Wills (left tackle) and Wyatt Teller (right guard) being the biggest red flag.

Look at the Cincinnati Bengals last weekend, if they have even a reasonable offensive line, I think they easily win that game. Instead, Chris Jones will likely be in Joe Burrow’s head for the next six months as he caused so much disruption.

Good or bad, this offensive line will remain intact next season. If the Browns want to be serious contenders and have a chance, they’ll need a guy like Lane Johnson or Orlando Browns anchoring the offensive line. I love Joel Bitonio as much as the next guy, but elite guard play has much less factor on a game than elite play at tackle.

With Watson being capable of throwing the ball 40-50 times a game and being successful, this team better find a way to protect him, or he won’t last a full season.