The Cleveland Browns are facing a critical decision regarding their left tackle position ahead of Thursday night’s primetime matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Just a day before the game, the Browns ruled out Jedrick Wills Jr. due to ongoing knee issues. Wills has been dealing with the injury, which also sidelined him for much of last season, and it has continued to affect his play this year. Although he practiced on Tuesday in a limited capacity, the team ultimately decided to leave him out for the game.
Wills described his knee injury as “frustrating,” explaining that he has spent the season managing pain and receiving treatment to stay available for the team. Despite his efforts, the injury has clearly taken its toll, and the Browns have opted to rule him out for Thursday’s crucial game against the Steelers. His absence marks another setback in what has already been a challenging season for the veteran left tackle.
Earlier this season, Wills lost his starting role in Week 8 when he opted not to play against the Baltimore Ravens due to his knee issues. He later referred to his decision as a “business decision,” which caused some confusion. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski clarified that while Wills’ choice of words was not ideal, it was understood that Wills did not feel he was physically able to contribute to the team at full strength. The two cleared up any misunderstandings within the organization, and Wills said he wasn’t bothered by any negative reactions his comments may have caused.
In Week 8, with Wills sidelined, Dawand Jones stepped in at left tackle, marking his first time playing on that side of the line in his NFL career. However, Jones suffered a fractured fibula during the Browns’ recent game against the New Orleans Saints, which required surgery and ended his season. This unfortunate injury allowed Wills to reclaim his starting position, but now, with Wills again unavailable, the Browns find themselves in need of a new solution at left tackle for Thursday’s game.
The Browns have a few options to fill the void left by Wills. Jack Conklin, the team’s starting right tackle, could be moved to the left side. Additionally, the Browns recently re-signed Geron Christian, though Stefanski noted that Christian is unlikely to start on Thursday due to his recent return to the roster. On the practice squad, the team has Roy Mbaeteka and Lorenzo Thompson as potential options. The Browns may also consider shuffling other players along the offensive line to address the situation.
As the Browns work through their options, they will have little time to finalize their decision, with the 8:15 p.m. kickoff approaching at Huntington Bank Field. Stefanski acknowledged the challenge, saying the team will continue to evaluate their best options leading up to the game. With a 2-8 record, the Browns are looking to improve their standing as they face their AFC North rival, hoping to make adjustments that will help them succeed despite the challenges posed by their offensive line.
“We’re just going to continue to work through that and we’ll see on Thursday,” Stefanski said, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding their left tackle situation.
