The former first overall pick has lived up to expectations and more
The history of the NFL is steeped in greatness from the Cleveland Browns. The Browns have legends like RB Jim Brown, Paul Brown, QB Len Dawson, OT/kicker Lou Groza, QB Otto Graham, OT Joe Thomas and so many more.
Unfortunately, Cleveland’s football team fell on rough times starting with owner Art Modell stabbing the city in the back and moving the team to Baltimore. The rushed return of the Browns in 1999 is part of the reason current ownership is likely moving the stadium out of downtown Cleveland.
The team’s struggle on the field led to a long absence from inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which Thomas broke last year. It is also why a current player, DE Myles Garrett, was listed as the Browns next Hall of Famer by The Athletic:
Even though Garrett is only 28 years old and has played just seven seasons, he looks like a shoo-in. It’s possible Joel Bitonio will jump him, but it’s difficult for guards to get into the Hall of Fame. Bitonio has an impressive resume, but there are several guards with similar resumes already in the queue, including Jahri Evans.
Only two other active players (RB Derrick Henry, OT Trent Williams), along with owner Robert Kraft, are on the list. Neither Henry (Tennesse Titans) or Williams (Washington Commanders) are playing for the teams they represent on the list.
As noted, Bitonio has a chance but, according to Pro Football Reference’s Hall of Fame monitor data, Garrett is much closer.
While Cleveland has turned around their performance on the field over the last few years, besides Garrett it is hard to predict another Hall of Famer. WR Amari Cooper has had a great career but is not likely to get the golden jacket.
Is there anyone else from the Browns recent history or current team that you think is on a Hall of Fame path? Share your thoughts in the comment section below