Dawand Jones is entering one of the most important seasons of his young football career. After a lightning-fast start to his career, he has experienced three straight season-ending injuries that have really derailed the excitement around his potential in the NFL.
After his first season, Cleveland believed they had found a diamond in the rough. They drafted him in the fourth round out of The Ohio State University, and immediately, he was put to the test. In Week One of his very first season, he was thrust into the starting spot after a Jack Conklin injury, and he dominated Trey Henderickson.
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It turned everyone’s head, and he continued that strong play until he tore his MCL and ended his season. Year two was a step back in production, but a fractured ankle ended that season, and then year three was yet another step back in production, but a torn LCL and injured hamstring were his fate.
Now, as Jones enters his fourth season, it is his contract campaign not only for his future in Cleveland but also for his future in the league. The Browns have basically told him how they view him, at least at the offensive tackle position.
Sep 8, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Dawand Jones (79) gives a thumbs up as he heads to the line of scrimmage against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
After signing Tytus Howard at right tackle and drafting Spencer Fano to play left tackle, Jones is facing a reality that two years ago probably didn’t seem like a part of his future. He is going to have to really compete to earn snaps at either tackle position as a backup or explore the potential of bumping down to guard.
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Cleveland Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot referenced this in her most recent article, saying that “The Browns will find a starting job for (him) if he’s one of the best five offensive linemen in camp… he could even play guard if necessary.”
A move to guard would, in my opinion, be very unrealistic for Jones. He was an above-average tackle at best and didn’t ever show that he had the tools to be an athletic, downhill guard, which is what that position needs.
However, that spot is the fifth and final one open. I certainly am a proponent of putting your best five out on the field if it makes sense. Now, if it doesn’t, Jones will have to accept his reality as a swing, backup tackle.
It is a massive year for Jones, and his fate will largely be decided when Training Camp gets going at the end of July. He will be the storyline on the Browns’ offensive line, and where they ultimately deploy him will tell a lot about his future in Cleveland and in the NFL.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns’ might have to get creative with Dawand Jones in Year Four
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