The Cleveland Browns are facing a serious challenge after losing three key offensive linemen—Jedrick Wills Jr., Wyatt Teller, and James Hudson III—to injuries in their recent game against the New York Giants.
response to this crisis, Bleacher Report and other analysts have recommended that the Browns consider signing veteran tackler a two-time Super Bowl champion, could bring valuable experience and stability to the offensive line. Though he struggled in 2023 with the Kansas City Chiefs, his experience could be crucial for the Browns as they try to protect quarterback Deshaun Watson amid these injuries.
With their offensive line now relying heavily on rookies and backups, adding a seasoned player like Smith could help stabilize the situation until their starters return.
The Cleveland Browns are indeed in a challenging spot after multiple injuries to their offensive line, including Jedrick Wills Jr., Wyatt Teller, and James Hudson III. While they managed to temporarily shift guard Joel Bitonio to left tackle to finish their game against the Giants, that move isn’t seen as a sustainable long-term solution. As mentioned in reports, veteran free agent Donovan Smith, despite a rough 2023 season with the Chiefs, is seen as a potential short-term fix to stabilize the situation.
While Smith isn’t a perfect fit, the Browns’ need for reinforcements is urgent. Their reliance on rookies and backups in such a critical area of the team could derail their season unless they act quickly to bring in experienced help.
Myles Garrett has solidified his place as one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive players, and his impact on the Cleveland Browns is backed by both statistics and accolades. Garrett has been named to four consecutive All-Pro teams, showcasing his consistency and elite performance at the defensive end position. His campaign in 2023, which earned him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, further cemented his status as a defensive force.
Garrett’s ability to pressure quarterbacks is historic. By the end of his seventh season, he had accumulated 82 sacks, placing him among the all-time greats. Only Reggie White, DeMarcus Ware, T.J. Watt, and Lawrence Taylor recorded more sacks in their first seven seasons than Garrett. This rarefied company highlights his ability to consistently disrupt offenses and create game-changing plays.
In addition to his sack totals, Garrett’s presence has fundamentally altered how opposing offenses scheme against the Browns, often requiring double teams and extra blockers to mitigate his impact. His versatility, speed, and strength make him a complete player, and he has evolved into the centerpiece of Cleveland’s defense.
Myles Garrett’s impact for the Cleveland Browns in 2024 could be significantly hampered by a lingering foot injury that he has been battling since early September. Despite his MRI results coming back clean, as reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero and confirmed by head coach Kevin Stefanski, Garrett’s condition remains a concern. Stefanski acknowledged that Garrett is day-to-day, noting his perseverance despite the injury. However, Garrett himself has been more candid about the challenges he’s facing. He explained that the issue extends beyond just his foot, describing it as a combination of injuries that are affecting other parts of his body due to compensating for the foot injury.
This ongoing cycle of pain and compensation may require offseason surgery, which Garrett hinted at after Cleveland’s loss to the New York Giants. His statement highlights that the injury is more complex than it seems, making his long-term health and effectiveness a pressing issue for both the Browns and Garrett himself. If this cycle continues, it could limit his production and disrupt his ability to anchor Cleveland’s defense at the elite level he’s known for.
Browns have big problems beyond Myles Garrett’s health
While Myles Garrett’s injury is concerning for the Cleveland Browns, it’s far from the team’s biggest issue in 2024. The quarterback situation, revolving around Deshaun Watson, has become a major problem. Watson, who is one of the highest-paid players in the NFL, has struggled significantly since returning to play. His performance has been among the worst for starting quarterbacks this season, which is especially troubling given the Browns’ heavy financial investment in him. Watson’s inconsistency has crippled the offense, making it difficult for the team to stay competitive.
On top of that, the Browns are still without star running back Nick Chubb, who has yet to return from a devastating knee injury suffered more than a year ago. His absence has left a void in the running game, further compounding the offensive struggles. Meanwhile, the offensive line, which was once one of the best in the league, has been ravaged by retirements and injuries. These combined factors have weakened the team’s ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes, reducing the effectiveness of the offense as a whole.
Even with a fully healthy Myles Garrett, it’s unlikely that the Browns can turn things around without addressing these deeper systemic issues. Garrett’s elite defensive play can’t compensate for the dysfunction on offense and the mounting injuries across the roster.
