The Cleveland Browns front office deserves much of the credit for the incredible turnaround of the offensive line.
It was a spot that hurt the Browns severely last season, but has been their greatest strength this season.
The #Browns offensive line ranked 2nd in pass-blocking efficiency in Week 2 (95.8), a rating measuring pressure allowed per snap, weighted toward sacks. pic.twitter.com/qIeSJVeJ9d
— PFF CLE Browns (@PFF_Browns) September 21, 2020
It is truly incredible that the team was able to make such big strides during one offseason.
The successful play of the offensive line has made it much easier for the Browns on offense.
The Browns might actually be able to make the postseason, assuming the offensive line continues to play at this elite level.
What Changed?
The Browns offensive line was horrendous last season and a huge part as to why the team failed to move the ball on offense.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield was sacked 40 times last season, which is a massive increase from his rookie campaign.
However, the Browns have actually been able to successfully block for their quarterback this season.
A big reason why is the additions to the tackle position over the offseason.
https://twitter.com/big_mike9169/status/1310966832417865737
The Browns front office went out and added highly-coveted free agent Jack Conklin.
Cleveland gave Conklin over $40 million, but he has proven to be worth it early in the season.
They also added tackle Jedrick Wills with the No. 10 overall selection in the draft.
The Alabama product has made some mistakes, but has been reliable for the most part.
Another factor worth mentioning is that Wyatt Teller has become an elite option over the offseason.
Top-graded guards through 3 weeks:
1. Ali Marpet – 88.5
2. Michael Onwenu – 87.6
3. Wyatt Teller – 87.5✅
4. Bradley Bozeman – 84.9
5. Joel Bitonio – 84.5✅ pic.twitter.com/LAymX5xoUx— PFF CLE Browns (@PFF_Browns) September 29, 2020
He worked hard during the offseason to improve his game and it’s showing.
However, offensive line coach Bill Callahan deserves plenty of credit for this turnaround.
Callahan is one of the most well-respected coaches in the game and is always able to get the most out of his players.
The Browns front office knew that a successful offensive line would be a key to their offense.
Thus far, it has paid off for the Browns, but hopefully that continues all season long.
Lean On The O-Line?
The improved play of the offensive line has made a tremendous impact on the Browns offense.
It has given Mayfield more time in the pocket, which is obviously always important.
Last season, Mayfield was pressured often and made bad decisions because of it.
That is partly on him, but the offensive line deserves some of the blame as well.
The offensive line has also opened up running lanes for Nick Chubb.
Only three games into the season, but Chubb already has two games with over 100 rushing yards.
The Browns could be a serious threat in the AFC, assuming their offensive line continues to perform at an elite level.
Cleveland has a stacked offense, so just give them the lanes and time in the pocket.
Time will tell if this type of stellar play continues, but if it does then the Browns could actually be looking at the postseason for the first time in a long time.
NEXT: Can The Browns Upset The Cowboys? One Writer Thinks So
