Dawand Jones: The Browns' hidden gem who could be a future Pro Bowler

The Cleveland Browns had one of the best underrated drafts in 2023, adding several talented players to their already stacked roster. One of the most intriguing picks was Dawand Jones, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, who was selected in the fourth round with the 111th overall pick.

Jones was not a highly touted prospect coming out of college, despite having a stellar career with the Buckeyes. He was a three-star recruit in high school, who played both football and basketball and had offers from several Division I programs in both sports. He chose to play football at Ohio State, where he developed into a dominant lineman under coach Ryan Day.

Jones played in 31 games for the Buckeyes, starting 14 of them at right tackle. He did not allow a single sack or quarterback hit in his senior season, earning first-team All-American honors from the Associated Press and second-team All-Big Ten honors from the coaches and media. He also showed his versatility by lining up as a tight end and a fullback in some formations, displaying his athleticism and mobility.

Jones decided to enter the NFL draft after his senior season, hoping to prove himself at the next level. He impressed scouts at the NFL combine, where he measured at 6-foot-8 and 374 pounds, with 36 3/8-inch arms and 11 5/8-inch hands. He also ran a respectable 5.35-second 40-yard dash and showed good agility and strength in the drills. Can you imagine a nearly 400 pound man running a 5.35 40 yard dash?!

The Browns saw enough potential in Jones to draft him in the fourth round, adding him to their already formidable offensive line that features Pro Bowlers like Jedrick Wills Jr., Jack Conklin, Joel Bitonio, and Wyatt Teller. Jones was expected to be a backup and a developmental project for the Browns, who have one of the best offensive line coaches in the league in Bill Callahan.

However, Jones has exceeded all expectations in his first preseason with the Browns, showing that he is ready to contribute right away. He has played in all three preseason games so far, starting two of them at left tackle. He has been dominant in both pass protection and run blocking, allowing zero pressures and zero sacks on 111 pass-blocking snaps. He has also shown his versatility by playing some snaps at right tackle and tight end.

Jones has earned rave reviews from his coaches and teammates for his performance in the preseason. Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Jones for his improvement and work ethic, saying that he has "a bright future" with the Browns. Quarterback Deshaun Watson, who was acquired by the Browns last year in a blockbuster trade with the Texans, said that Jones is "a beast" who can "do it all" on the field. Running back Nick Chubb, who led the league in rushing yards per game last season, said that Jones is "a monster" who can "move people out of the way" with ease.

Jones has also impressed analysts and fans with his preseason performance. Many have compared him to players like Trent Brown and Orlando Brown Jr., who are also massive offensive tackles who have made multiple Pro Bowls in their careers. Some have even suggested that Jones could challenge Wills or Conklin for a starting spot on the Browns' offensive line, or at least be a valuable swing tackle who can fill in at either side.

Jones is not satisfied with his preseason performance, though. He knows that he still has a lot to learn and improve on as a rookie in the NFL. He said that he is grateful for the opportunity to play for the Browns and learn from Callahan and his veteran teammates. He said that he is focused on getting better every day and helping the team win games.

Jones has shown that he has all the tools to be a successful offensive tackle in the NFL. He has the size, strength, athleticism, technique, versatility, and attitude that teams look for in a lineman. He has also shown that he can handle any challenge that comes his way, whether it is switching positions, playing against elite pass rushers, or adjusting to a new level of competition.

Jones is a hidden gem for the Browns, who have found themselves a potential star in the fourth round of the draft. He has already proven himself as one of the best rookie offensive tackles in the league, and he could be even better with more experience and coaching. He has the potential to be a future Pro Bowler and a cornerstone of the Browns' offensive line for years to come.

Jones will now be pressed into an immediate starting role after a week 1 injury to Browns starter Jack Conklin. Conklin was rolled up on and suffered a significant injury to his knee in the Browns week 1 spanking of the Cincinnati Bengals. The injury will keep Conklin sidelined for the remainder of this season and thrusts Jones into an immediate role. I feel really good about the 4th rounder having an immediate impact!

Dawand Jones is more than just a backup. He is a game-changer who could take the Browns' offense to new heights!

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