Cleveland Browns: Why the offensive tackle situation is already a win-win

The Cleveland Browns’ tackle situation is going to look different this fall. How exactly should this play out?

A number of key positions are being improved upon this offseason by the Cleveland Browns. Among them are left and likely right tackle.

Via the Browns, LT Joe Thomas, who has been the team’s face of the franchise for years, has announced that he has retired. While no one can replace Thomas, Cleveland has to fill the hole left by the future hall of famer.

Right tackle Shon Coleman was okay in 2017 but penalties and inconsistent play have been concerning. Cleveland could use an upgrade there. So, with two areas of need along the offensive line, here are a couple of options on how the Browns should take care of their tackle positions.

There are a couple of in-house options to potentially consider (including Coleman moving to LT), but really, they are nothing more than backups. Whether it is Coleman, Roderick Johnson, Spencer Drango, or anyone else, I’d pass. Thanks but no thanks.

Also, there is this. 92.3 The Fan’s Daryl Ruiter stated the Browns’ view of the LT position regarding Thomas’ replacement:

With that in mind and knowing no in-house option is viewed by Cleveland as a worthy replacement, OT Chris Hubbard should be the favorite to start heading into the draft. Hubbard, who according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, will officially sign with Cleveland for five years. Hubbard is a former versatile Pittsburgh Steelers lineman.

To complement Hubbard on the left side, Donald Stephenson is a name to keep an eye on at right tackle. Stephenson, per NFL Network’ Mike Garafolo, will sign for one season. Stephenson is better suited as a spot starter. However, with a fresh start elsewhere, maybe that benefit him enough to play better like he did a couple of years ago.

Should that option not be the Browns’ plan or it cannot work out for whatever reason, then look to the draft. Hubbard would have been the starting right tackle had Thomas returned. Since he is not, there may be the possibility of him remaining on the right side and allowing a rookie to start on the left, but that is to be determined.

A rookie tackle needs to be drafted sooner than later. So, whether it is Hubbard – LT and rookie – RT or rookie – LT and Hubbard – RT, this scenario should not be dismissed. Instead, it should be advocated more given other scenarios.

There are multiple tackles to keep an eye on who should be no later than a day two pick. Those players would be able to help from the start. They are Chukwuma Okorafor (Western Michigan), Mike McGlinchey (Notre Dame), Connor Williams (Texas), and Martinas Rankin (Miss. State), and Tyrell Crosby (Oregon).

Next: 3 ways the recent trades influences the Browns' offseason

Cleveland could go a number of different directions on how they want to proceed at both left and right tackle. Whichever route the team goes, it is a win-win whether it is the experienced route or a mix of experience and the draft.