When healthy, the Cleveland Browns' offensive line has been a model of consistency in the NFL for the last several seasons. With running back Nick Chubb and quarterback Deshaun Watson both returning from injury, the importance of stability and consistency from the Browns' offensive line will be crucial for this offense to reach its full potential.
The Browns' starting five is among the best in the league. With the always-reliable Wyatt Teller and Joel Bitonio locked under contract through the 2025 season, the Browns shouldn’t have any trouble finding players to lead the running game at both guard positions. Between them is Ethan Pocic, who has been stellar during his time in Cleveland. Having this core group of three is what makes the Browns' running game so productive. Bitonio, Teller, and Pocic form one of the more impressive interior zone-blocking lines in the league.
At tackles, Jedrick Wills, who’s entering a contract year, lines up next to sophomore Dawand Jones. Jones fell to the Browns in the fourth round of the 2022 draft and performed well in his rookie season. Wills is aiming to secure a long-term contract as he looks to regain his form after a season-ending injury.
Adding to this wealth of talent, the Browns selected Michigan’s Zak Zinter in the third round of this year's draft. Zinter provides some insurance in case of injury and also serves as a potential long-term starting option at guard or center. Joining him in this rookie class is UDFA and Miami product Javion Cohen. Cohen went undrafted but has a good chance to make the roster and possibly be a productive player when he gets playing time.
A key aspect of rounding out an offensive line segment is to have versatile backups. The Browns have several second-team linemen capable of playing almost every position along the line. Constructing the roster in this way allows teams to carry fewer linemen week to week and derive more value from fewer players.
One of the most impressive in this group, Jack Conklin, has had a notably impressive career from his time in Tennessee to the past four years with the Browns. While he's returning from a season-ending injury, Conklin will have an opportunity to regain his starting role on the team, potentially competing with Jones. Michael Dunn and Hakeem Adenji are considered swing options at both guard and tackle. Demonstrating their value early on will be crucial in a competitive environment with limited roster spots.
With a mix of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and versatile backups, the Browns are well-positioned to maintain their consistency and strength in the upcoming season and make a run for the AFC North.