Cleveland Browns lineman JC Tretter, Kevin Zeitler and Joel Bitonio are among the best lineman when it comes to pass blocking.
Pro Football Focus has already praised the offensive line of the Cleveland Browns. JC Tretter, Kevin Zeitler and Joel Bitonio were among the best lineman in the division overall. Now looking at just their pass blocking they are among the best in the league.
The fact that the Browns have the top two guards at pass blocking is quiet impressive. Kevin Zeitler taking the top honor while Joel Bitonio is a close second.
The guard position is not the only spot where Cleveland lineman excelled last season. JC Tretter checks in as the third-best center in the NFL in regards to pass blocking. Add in the fact that Tretter battled an injury all year long makes it just that more impressive.
What this all means is that the central part of the Cleveland Browns offensive line was incredibly successful when it came to pass blocking. This was extremely important for a couple reasons.
First off it helped offset the lack of elite talent at the tackle positions. While Greg Robinson and Chris Hubbard were relatively average, the middle of the line was able to anchor the unit and lessen the pressure on those two to perform above their skill level.
Secondly it allowed Baker Mayfield ample time to make plays. One of the easiest ways to rattle a young quarterback is pressure through the middle. The fact that Cleveland was able to limit the effectiveness of this tactic through the middle was integral to their success in the passing game.
Having some of the best pass blocking offensive lineman in the league will only help the Browns as they move forward. It will make the development and progression of the offense in the next few seasons that much easier.
