What’s the game plan for the Cleveland Browns’ offensive line this year? With the need to revamp their front five, the Browns are at a crossroads. While OT Dawand Jones remains under contract, his repeated stints on IR raise questions about his future with the team.
The Browns’ offense is in desperate need of a solid O-Line, especially with a new offensive-minded head coach at the helm. The recent shake-up with the Tennessee Titans’ coaching staff had fans hoping for a return of former Browns O-Line coach Bill Callahan, but he’s already committed to Atlanta with Kevin Stefanski.
Jack Conklin, the talented yet injury-prone RT, is now a free agent after revising his contract. His ability to stay healthy has been a concern, playing only 57 out of 102 games since 2020.
The Browns’ free agent list includes key players like LG Joel Bitonio, RG Wyatt Teller, LT Cam Robinson, C Ethan Pocic, OG Teven Jenkins, and Conklin. With their offensive line ranked 31st last season, injuries turned it into a revolving door, especially with both starting tackles landing on IR.
General Manager Andrew Berry has his work cut out for him this offseason. The draft offers a wealth of options, and free agency could bring in experienced veterans. Both the guard and tackle positions need reinforcement.
Let’s dive into what OT Braxton Jones could bring to the Browns.
Braxton Jones: A Potential Asset
Standing at 6’5” and weighing 306 pounds, Braxton Jones, a former Chicago Bear, is an intriguing prospect. Drafted in the fifth round in 2022, Jones boasts a solid pedigree with accolades like being a two-time First Team All-Big Sky and an NFL All-Rookie Team member.
Jones’ journey in the NFL has been marked by both promise and setbacks. As a rookie, he started all 17 games and earned a spot on the All-Rookie squad.
However, injuries have been a recurring theme. A hamstring issue sidelined him for six games in his second year, but he bounced back to start the final eight games.
In 2024, he missed several games due to injuries, and last season, a knee injury put him on IR, though he returned just in time for the playoffs.
Despite these challenges, Jones shines as a pass blocker, with impressive grades of 80.8 in 2024 and 62.7 last year before his injury. His agility and relentless footwork make him a formidable presence on the field.
Known for his athleticism and tenacity, Jones has the height, arm length, and technique to excel. However, he occasionally struggles with balance due to lunging.
For the Browns, Jones represents a potential bargain. His injury-plagued 2025 season means he’s got fresh legs and the potential to rebound. At $3.66 million last year, he’s poised for a well-deserved payday.
Jones could be the steady presence the Browns need, bringing experience without breaking the bank. Yet, his injury history mirrors the team’s current challenges, making this a calculated risk for Cleveland.