While the Cleveland Browns may turn into a more pass-oriented team in 2022 with Deshaun Watson under center and Amari Cooper added as the team’s top receiver, the run game will continue to be a strong part of the team. With Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt leading the way, along with impressive depth, the running back room is, perhaps, the best in the league.
Neither the rushing or passing attacks would matter much without a quality offensive line. While Nick Harris will need to adequately replace J.C. Tretter and Jedrick Wills will need to stay healthy, the line is still one of the best in the league.
Veteran guard Joel Bitonio leads the way for the unit. The four-time Pro-Bowler has been a rock for the Browns since being drafted in 2014 out of Nevada. Despite the accolades and another contract extension, Bitonio made the “All Underrated Team.” His versatile skill set is impressive:
Bitonio has all the physical skills you want in a guard with his toughness and agility, but what sets him apart at this point in his career is his ability to diagnose different defenders and take them out of bad situations for his quarterback.
The linked article from Touchdown Wire gives a great video example of this skill by Bitonio.
Interestingly, none of the other three AFC North teams have a player on the list.