GREAT NEWS: Former Browns fans favorite announces his return

GREAT NEWS: Former Browns fans favorite announces his return

In an Instagram post, Cleveland Browns right tackle Jack Conklin declared himself back, cleared to participate in the team’s training camp toward the end of July, which may have an impact on the team’s offensive line.

Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Jack Conklin announced himself back on Instagram, thanking his wife for her support during his rehabilitation from a ruptured ACL. Good news for the Browns offensive line three weeks before training camp: a healthy Conklin could help assure the Browns offensive line returns to playing at a high level and opens up some choices for the team’s tackle position.

Part of the reason this is noteworthy is that it was unexpected. The Browns have not commented on the timelines for several of their players’ recoveries from injuries sustained last season. Deshaun Watson, Nick Chubb, and Jedrick Wills are a few examples.

Other than calculating based on the time Conklin had lost after having an ACL injury on September 11th, 2023, Wills supplied the sole hint, stating that he was on track to return before Conklin. Conklin’s health with three weeks till the start of training camp is noteworthy. He can continue to strengthen his leg and acquire confidence in his movement until the squad begins training camp.

Given the intrigue surrounding Conklin’s return, many expected Dawand Jones to take over as the team’s starting right tackle. That might still be the case. Conklin’s recurring knee ailments may restrict his potential. The two might compete for the job, and if Jones wins or is close enough that the Browns decide it is best to go with the second-year player with a promising future, Conklin will become the backup.

Given that Jones recently suffered a season-ending injury, having Conklin as depth is costly but still beneficial. The guarantees in Conklin’s contract render a transaction unproductive. Conklin may also be able to assist Jones improve in his second season.

However, if his knee healthy and functional, Conklin is the best offensive tackle on the Browns. Even if Conklin is unable to reach the level of play that earned him All-Pro honors in 2020, he can be an excellent, full service tackle. That version of Conklin steps back into the starting lineup and upgrades the offensive line, especially in the running game.

At that point, Dawand Jones is on par with any NFL backup lineman. It then becomes prudent for Jones to have experience at left tackle. Not only would it give competition for the extremely inconsistent Jedrick Wills in the final year of his rookie deal, but the Browns might also find themselves with a long-term solution. They would at least investigate whether such a move is viable.

Unless the Browns find an unexpected solution in training camp, Jones stands out as the next best tackle. If Wills is injured, Jones is likely to be named as his successor. It would be malpractice not to put him in that position and prepare him for such a situation.