Browns' New Offensive Line: Strength and Depth

0:00On March 27, the Cleveland Browns' offensive line fell apart last season, finishing rank 31st in the league after constant injuries and turnover. Four of five starters from the end of the previous year were gone by week one, leaving just left guard Joel by Tonio from that group. General manager Andrew Berry jumped into free agency to rebuild, trading for right tackle Titus Howard, and signing guards Zion Johnson and Teven. Jenkins, plus center Elton Jenkins. That gives them a fresh starting five right now. Left tackle Dewan Jones, left guard Zion Johnson, center Elton Jenkins, right guard Teven Jenkins, and right tackle Titus Howard. They also added depth with reserve future deals and have young guys like Zach Zinter and Luke Weypler under contract already. Fans and analysts see this as a much needed fix after using seven different line combinations last year and losing key vets to free agency. By Tonio is expected to retire soon, though the team would welcome him back in a heartbeat if he changes his mind.

1:03The new coaching staff, including line coach Sanders Davis, now has solid structure to work with heading into camp. Looking ahead, Berry plans to grab at least one or two offensive linemen in the draft, starting April 23rd with the number six overall pick-in. Round one. Top targets include tackles like Francis Maui Goa from Miami or Spencer Fano from Utah, plus options later for guards and more tackles. But questions linger about Jones, who's hit injured reserve with knee and ankle issues, each of his three pro seasons. Competition will heat up once pads crack and training camp, pushing everyone to earn their spots and finally stabilizing this line for the long haul.