The Cleveland Browns experience the same issue every season—offensive linemen suffer injuries and miss significant time.
Traditionally, teams carried three backup linemen, keeping eight on the roster. Before Kevin Stefanski became head coach in 2020, the Browns typically retained nine. However, Stefanski prefers to keep 10.
The Injury Struggles Continue
Despite adjustments, this number still proves insufficient. No position along the offensive line is immune to injuries. The reality is simple: offensive linemen engage with defenders on every single offensive play, increasing their risk of wear and tear.
Among the positions most impacted over the past three seasons, offensive tackle stands out as the biggest concern.
RT Jack Conklin (6’6”, 308 lbs) was a major free-agent signing in 2020 but has struggled with injuries. After missing just one game in his first season, he has since suffered elbow and knee injuries, including a torn patellar tendon and a complete knee blowout in Week 1 of 2023. He has missed 33 games in five seasons.
LT Jedrick Wills (6’4”, 307 lbs) has dealt with shin and knee issues, including an MCL injury in Week 9 of last season. Over five years, he has missed 26 games.
RT/LT Dawand Jones (6’8”, 374 lbs), a fourth-round pick in 2023, has played well when healthy. However, he has already suffered a knee injury and a fractured ankle in his young career, playing in only 21 out of 34 possible regular-season games.
Recent Signing: Cornelius Lucas
In response to these concerns, Browns GM Andrew Berry signed veteran OT Cornelius Lucas (6’9”, 325 lbs) early in free agency. The 33-year-old is entering his 11th season and has played for six teams. Despite his journeyman status, Lucas has been solid, appearing in 129 games with 54 starts. Last season with the Washington Commanders, he posted a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 74.1 (27th out of 141 tackles) while allowing just one sack—an encouraging addition for Cleveland.
Is That Enough?
With Lucas joining the roster, the Browns now have three tackles under contract. However, depth remains a question.
Other tackles currently on the roster include:
LT Roy Mbaeteka (6’8”, 330 lbs) – An international player who spent last season on the Browns’ practice squad.
RT Julian Pearl (6’6”, 325 lbs) – Another practice squad member who signed a reserve/futures contract in January.
LT Lorenzo Thompson (6’6”, 305 lbs) – Like Mbaeteka and Pearl, he was a practice squad player last season.
While these players provide additional depth, the Browns may still need to explore free agency for more experienced options to reinforce their offensive line.
