For years, the Cleveland Browns boasted one of the NFL’s most formidable offensive lines. A cornerstone of their identity, the unit paved the way for a dominant rushing attack and provided ample protection for their quarterbacks. However, the 2024 season is painting a starkly different picture. With injuries piling up at the offensive tackle position, a once-reliable strength has morphed into the team’s most pressing weakness.
The Browns’ offensive line depth, particularly at tackle, is alarmingly thin. Starters Jedrick Wills and Jack Conklin are both dealing with injuries, and backups James Hudson and Hakeem Adeniji have also suffered setbacks. This leaves the team dangerously exposed should either of the starters miss extended time.
While the Browns did re-sign Chim Okorafor, who has experience at tackle, he’s more suited to a swing tackle role. Rookie Dawand Jones, a fourth-round pick, possesses immense raw talent but is still developing. Relying solely on these options is a risky proposition.
To fortify their offensive line, the Browns must explore all avenues. One potential solution lies in the trade market.
Potential trade targets include:
- Jaguars OT Walker Little: A young, talented tackle who could be expendable for Jacksonville. The Browns could offer a mid-round pick and a conditional selection.
- Panthers OL Brady Christensen: Versatile lineman who can play tackle or guard. The Browns could offer a late-round pick and a player.
- Cardinals OT Kelvin Beachum or Dennis Daley: Experienced veterans who could provide immediate depth. The Browns could offer a conditional late-round pick.
- Titans OT Dillon Radunz: Former first-round pick looking for a fresh start. The Browns could offer a conditional late-round pick.
- Bears OT Larry Borom: Young, developing tackle with upside. The Browns could offer a conditional late-round pick and a player.
- Bengals OT Jackson Carman: Former first-round pick who has struggled. The Browns could offer a conditional late-round pick.
- Chiefs OT Lucas Niang: Experienced tackle who could be a depth option. The Browns could offer a conditional late-round pick.
A more aggressive approach could involve trading backup quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. While the young signal-caller has shown promise, the Browns have other options at the position in Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley. Trading Thompson-Robinson could net a draft pick or even a veteran offensive lineman, providing immediate help for the struggling unit.
Additionally, the Browns could explore free agency options. Veterans like Donovan Smith, a former Pro Bowler with experience protecting Tom Brady, could bring stability and leadership to the blindside. Charles Leno, another seasoned tackle with a knack for pass protection, could be a reliable option on the right side. And Prince Tega-Wanogho, a younger, more athletic option, could offer a potential long-term solution while providing immediate depth. While their contracts might be expensive, their experience and stability could be invaluable to a struggling offensive line.
Another option for the Browns to bolster their offensive line depth is to aggressively target the waiver wire. With final roster cuts looming, talented players could become available. The team should prioritize experienced linemen with versatility, capable of playing both tackle and guard. Players who have shown flashes of potential but haven’t had consistent opportunities could be hidden gems.
By scouring the waiver wire, the Browns can potentially find immediate contributors without sacrificing draft capital or valuable assets.Ultimately, the Browns find themselves in a precarious situation. A once-proud offensive line is now a source of anxiety. Addressing this issue is paramount if they hope to contend for a playoff spot. The clock is ticking, and Cleveland must act decisively to protect its franchise quarterback and maximize the potential of its offense.
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