The Cleveland Browns got the first look at their rebuilt offensive line working against an opponent in the preseason opener against the Chicago Bears on Saturday. It was an uneven performance, with some struggles in the running game, particularly in short-yardage situations.
Fortunately, the line allowed just one sack of Deshaun Watson in the first half, even though it resulted in a lost fumble. Now, heading into the next preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, there are a few backup jobs that remain undecided.
According to insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic, overlooked Browns lineman KT Leveston is quietly making a case for a roster spot, which is helped by his ability to play multiple positions.
“KT Leveston, who got No. 1 reps at right guard for more than a week when Teven Jenkins was injured early in camp, led all offensive players with 45 snaps in Chicago. The Browns want to see Leveston continue to develop as he’s moving inside after making seven emergency starts at tackle last season. He will probably make the team because of his position versatility and because he’s on a rookie contract through 2027,” Jackson wrote.
Jenkins, who re-signed with the Browns this offseason, is atop the depth chart at right guard, despite splitting first-team reps with Tyre Phillips at practice last week. Offseason acquisition Tytus Howard is the right tackle, with free agent signees Elgton Jenkins at center and Zion Johnson at left guard. Spencer Fano, the No. 9 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was named the starting left tackle leading into the game against the Bears and impressed head coach Todd Monken with his competitiveness.
There was some thought that Dawand Jones, who is the Browns’ only returning starter from the offensive line of Week 1 of last season, was challenging for a starting job, as Monken and assistant coach George Warhop were said to be seeking the five best linemen, regardless of position. Jones was a possibility at right guard, but he could play his more natural position of tackle, with Howard moving inside, thereby bumping Jenkins to a backup role.
Rookie tackle Austin Barber, a third-round pick, suffered a minor ankle injury against the Bears, and center Parker Brailsford, a fifth-round choice, did not play. If Brailsford were to get playing time at center this season, Jenkins could move to guard.
Zak Zinter may be competing with Phillips, Luke Wypler and Jack Conley for one of the final spots on the Browns’ 53-man roster, depending on how many offensive linemen they choose to carry.
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