The Browns made it a point of emphasis to improve their offensive line this offseason, and they did exactly that by selecting Alabama offensive tackle Jedrick Wills with the No. 10 pick in the 2020 NFL draft.
The 6-foot-4, 312-pound Wills played as a right tackle with the Crimson Tide, but he projects well on the blind side if Cleveland so envisions him playing there. A well-rounded tackle prospect who stakes a claim to being the most talented offensive lineman in the 2020 class, Wills is a polished player who uses his hands effectively, timing and placing his strikes with acute precision. He keeps his pads low and is able to maintain a low center of gravity, maximizing his anchor strength and keeping good balance.
Wills’ physical tools give him some intriguing value at the next level, as well. He is a solid athlete who moves around with pretty good body control and lateral quickness for his size. His strength is admirable, as he latches onto defenders with an imposing grip and has the raw power to manhandle an opponent at the point of attack, as well as the force in his lower body to keep his legs churning and drive defenders back. Combine that strength with his red-hot motor, and Wills projects to be a high-quality tackle in the NFL.
The Browns added Jack Conklin in free agency, and while the former Titans starter will shore up the right tackle spot, they still needed an improvement at the other tackle position. If all goes well, Wills should be able to start right away at left tackle and give Cleveland an anchor at that position that they’ve lacked since Joe Thomas retired after the 2017 season.
