The Cleveland Browns’ offense has been a force to be reckoned with under head coach Kevin Stefanski, thanks in large part to their powerful running game. Running back Nick Chubb has been a dominant force, while guards Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller, and center Ethan Pocic have formed a formidable offensive line. However, these key players are all in their primes and have dealt with various injuries throughout their careers, raising concerns about their long-term availability.
Chubb, 27, has been one of the most productive running backs in the NFL since entering the league in 2018. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first five seasons and has been named to the Pro Bowl three times. However, he has also dealt with knee and ankle injuries that have limited his playing time at times.
Bitonio, 30, is a three-time Pro Bowler and one of the most consistent guards in the league. He has started every game for the Browns since 2015 and has been a key part of their success on the ground. However, he has also dealt with injuries, including a concussion that forced him to miss the final two games of the 2022 season.
Teller, 28, is another Pro Bowl guard who has been a force in the Browns’ running game. He has started every game for the Browns since being acquired in a trade from the Buffalo Bills in 2020. However, he has also dealt with injuries, including a calf injury that limited him in the 2022 season.
Pocic, 28, is a solid center who has started every game for the Browns since signing with the team in 2021. However, he has also dealt with injuries, including a concussion that forced him to miss two games in 2022.
These injuries have highlighted the need for the Browns to consider their future strategy at these positions. Chubb, Bitonio, Teller, and Pocic are all still playing at a high level, but they are all getting closer to the end of their careers than they are the beginning. The Browns will need to start thinking about who will replace these players when they eventually move on.
