Cleveland Browns Head Coach’s Troublesome Tackle Situation
The Cleveland Browns have a strong offensive line, but their tackle positions are causing concern. Starting right tackle Jack Conklin has had a difficult time staying healthy, missing most of the 2023 season due to a severe knee injury. Meanwhile, starting left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. has remained relatively injury-free but has struggled to perform.
According to Matt Wilson of SB Nation’s Dawgs by Nature, the Browns may consider trading Wills during the offseason to improve the position. This move could save the team between $12M-$14.5M in cap space, a significant amount that could benefit the organization’s future. While receiving only a sixth-round pick for a former first-round selection may not be ideal, it could be a worthwhile sacrifice to free up much-needed funds.
The Browns may even explore trading Wills during the draft as part of a package to move up. This strategic move could help the team secure a higher draft pick while addressing their tackle issue. By making this trade, the Browns would have the opportunity to strengthen their roster and create a more promising future for the organization.
Cleveland Browns Offensive Tackle’s Future in Doubt After Disappointing Season
Jedrick Wills Jr., the highly touted No. 10 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, finds himself at a crossroads as his rookie contract comes to an end. Wills, who earned a total of $19.7 million over four years, now faces an uncertain future with the Cleveland Browns.
Despite a lackluster performance in the 2022 season, the Browns decided to exercise their team option on Wills for the 2024 campaign. This move raised eyebrows among fans and analysts, as Wills struggled to find consistency on the field. However, the Browns’ decision to stick with their investment is not without risks.
General Manager Andrew Berry and the Browns’ front office may have held onto Wills because they couldn’t find a suitable replacement. With offensive line coach Bill Callahan no longer with the team, the Browns hoped that another year under his guidance would help Wills reach his full potential. Unfortunately, Wills fell short of expectations, ranking 64th out of 81 qualifying players at the tackle position in 2023, according to Pro Football Focus.
Now, the Browns find themselves in a predicament. They are stuck with a subpar player on a hefty contract, and the only way out is to offer Wills as a low-risk option to a team in desperate need of an offensive tackle. It remains to be seen if any team will take a chance on Wills and if he can resurrect his career elsewhere.
For Wills, the road ahead is uncertain. Will he be able to prove his worth and live up to the potential that made him a top-10 pick? Only time will tell. In the meantime, the Browns must navigate the consequences of their decision and find a way to move forward without sacrificing their future success.
Browns’ Offensive Tackle Situation: What’s Next?
The Cleveland Browns have some tough decisions to make regarding their offensive tackle position. With the future of current left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. uncertain, the team must consider their options moving forward.
Wills has been a key player for the Browns, but there are rumors that the team may be willing to trade him if they can find a suitable replacement. However, the Browns won’t make any moves unless they have a solid plan in place. This could involve a short-term solution or even drafting a rookie.
Right tackle Jack Conklin is also a factor in the equation. While there is a possibility that he may return next season, he has always played on the right side throughout his career. This leaves the Browns with a dilemma if both Wills and Conklin are healthy and available.
One potential option for the Browns is to convert rookie Dawand Jones to the left side. Jones showed promise in his first NFL season when he stepped in for Conklin. However, this move would be risky considering the importance of the left tackle position.
If the Browns decide to trade Wills, they may look to find a replacement in the 2024 draft. However, their first pick isn’t until No. 54 overall in the second round, limiting their options. Another possibility is finding a value player in the later rounds who can contribute over the summer.
Alternatively, the Browns may need to explore the free-agent market to find a player who can protect quarterback Deshaun Watson. Watson is set to return from shoulder surgery and will need solid protection to perform at his best.
In conclusion, the Browns have some tough choices to make regarding their offensive tackle situation. The future of Wills and Conklin is uncertain, and the team must carefully consider their options moving forward.
According to the Source heavy.com