The Cleveland Browns are looking for solutions at left tackle after a slew of injuries have battered their tackle room. The Browns called in reinforcements to the 53-man roster, signing Germain Ifedi from the practice squad and Sebastian Gutierrez, and Ricky Lee III to the practice squad. The move bolsters the end of the depth chart, but the Browns still have no answer at the starter position. The Browns are mulling starting Joel Bitonio at left tackle.
Stefanski told reporters earlier this week that Bitonio could be an option at left tackle. Joel Bitonio should be the starting left tackle until Jedrick Wills Jr. returns from injury. Bitonio finished the Giants game at left tackle. He had an emergency start at left tackle in 2021. Bitonio has previously said he doesn’t want to play the position, but will if asked.
Bitonio’s resistance to playing left tackle is well-founded. Bitonio is a model of consistency. He is the longest-tenured Browns player on the roster. He hasn’t played left tackle since his college years. He is a Pro Bowl guard and is paid like one.
Bitonio should explore playing left tackle for the foreseeable future. He is likely the best option remaining. It may also help his legacy. Bitonio has been selected to six All-Pro teams in his ten seasons. Bitonio has been overshadowed by his fellow draft mate Zack Martin’s career.
Bitonio has an interesting way to differentiate his career from Martin’s if he succeeds at left tackle late into his career. It may give him the push he needs to enter the Hall of Fame.