Two Guys named Jenkins

    The Cleveland Browns bulked up their offensive line with contracts with two guys named Jenkins, both of whom could possibly start depending on the positional alignment.

The new Jenkins is Elgton Jenkins, who was released by the Green Bay Packers after the season to ease their salary cap numbers.

The 30-year-old Jenkins was the Packers' second-round draft choice from Mississippi State in 2019 and made two Pro Bowls in 2020 and 2022.

Jenkins made those Pro Bowls as a guard but played last season at center, where he made nine starts before a season-ending leg fracture, and has played tackle earlier in his career.

Jenkins is rated as an average run blocker, but as one of the better pass blockers at center and guard.

Jenkins was signed to a two-year deal worth 24 million, 20 of which is guaranteed.

I don't know the Browns' plans for the starters, but they re-signed Tevin Jenkins, who started the final four games last season and graded out well at guard.

The alignment that would make the most sense would have Elgton Jenkins at center with Tevin Jenkins at one guard and fellow signee Zion Johnson at the other, but Elgton grades better at guard.

Andrew Berry has clearly targeted bringing in linemen who can play multiple positions along the line, which is a good idea when you are patching a line together from veterans from other teams.

With Tytus Howard at one tackle after being acquired from Houston, and hoping for the best from Dawand Jones at the other tackle for now, the Browns could be finished for now ( but don't rule another veteran out) until the draft.

I see Cleveland drafting a tackle no later than their second round draft pick (39th overall) and more likely with one of their two first rounders (six and twenty-four).

While the Browns have turned over their offensive line, they do have a few backups returning with KT Levinston, who struggled at tackle but I liked what I saw in limited action at guard, disappointing 2024 third rounder Zac Zinter, and backup center Luke Wypler, who was injured in the season finale.

Cleveland isn't finished with free agency yet, as they have other positions to address with a veteran wideout and a blocking tight end at the top of the list.