Cleveland Browns: Top 6 Position Battles at Camp

Dec 14, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns tackle

(72) and Cincinnati Bengals defensive end

(96) at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

5. A Strong Line Can Always Get Stronger

Competition: Cameron Erving, Michael Bowie, Mitchell Schwartz, Vinston Painter, Andrew McDonald

The right side of the offensive line has been a problem for the Browns for years. John Greco has solidified the right guard position for now, however, right tackle has been a problem since the days of Ryan Tucker. In most games, the ball is mainly ran on the left side of the line with Joe Thomas and Joel Bitonio. It was rare to see any draw plays that went through the right side. Most plays that were ran on that side were toss sweeps, and even then the backs didn’t get many yards.

Mitchell Schwartz has been the Browns starting right tackle since 2012. He has started in all 48 games and has not missed one snap. He was tied with Thomas with six total penalties among the offensive line last season. Although he seems like the model of consistency, he has many faults within his game.

Schwartz is an atrocious run-blocker that gets overpowered by players smaller than him, and gets beaten off of the ball easily. Schwartz has also showed the inability to know which player to block on blitzes and stunts. Yet, the coaching staff is still high on him.

The clock is ticking for Schwartz after drafting Erving in the first round.

Many think that Erving was drafted to be the replacement for Alex Mack if he decides to leave after this season, but he is a versatile player that can play every position on the offensive line. He started in place of Thomas yesterday, and looked solid throughout the game. If Schwartz struggles early in the season, I can see him getting more reps at right tackle and even at right guard if Greco struggles.

Bowie was expected to be the biggest competition for Schwartz during training camp, but he has struggled and it showed on Thursday as he got beaten off the ball on almost every play and looked mediocre.

Result: Mitchell Schwartz

With the coaching staff having the most trust in him on the right side, he will likely be the game one starter against the New York Jets. His window of opportunity is not as wide as it was before with Erving and Bowie waiting. Painter and McDonald will continue to backup both tackle positions.

Next: The Core Will Set The Tempo