Cleveland Browns’ 10 best players since returning to the NFL in 1999

6. Alex Mack

Cleveland selected Cal center Alex Mack with the 21st pick in the 2009 NFL Draft after they traded down. The former Golden Bear has since gone on to become one of, if not the best centers in all of the NFL.

Mack spent his first seven seasons with the Browns. While there, he was named to the 2009 NFL All-Rookie Team and three pro bowls (2010, 2013, and 2015). Altogether, Mack has been voted to five pro bowls and it is safe to say more are on their way.

Had it not been for Cleveland matching a Jaguars’ offer sheet, Mack’s stay in NE Ohio would have been much shorter. Mack has since signed a multi-year contract back in 2016 with the Atlanta Falcons.

While in Cleveland, Mack formed an impressive offensive line duo with left tackle Joe Thomas. Mack’s individual play was quite evident and very impressive. However, he also played for a losing football team with constant turnover.

Therefore, it was only a matter of time before Mack left. If only he could have played longer for the franchise.

Had Cleveland been winning, maybe Mack would have been more inclined to stay. Now, Browns fans have just the memories of Mack using his athleticism to seal blocks to open up chances for ball-carriers.