Former Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports

Browns legend Joe Thomas should be first-ballot Hall of Fame lock

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 1/5/23

Joe Thomas was one of the best and most reliable players for the Browns for over a decade. Now, he's a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2023. Should he be considered a lock?

Thomas is in his first year of eligibility and sitting next to 14 others hoping to cement themselves in Canton, Ohio. The retired left tackle deserves to become the 18th Browns player to be inducted.

The career member of the @Browns, @joethomas73 is a Finalist for the Hall's Class of 2023! pic.twitter.com/bSgCY2GPIm
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) January 5, 2023

We are excited to share with you our full list of Finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023!

More Info: https://t.co/a4rWvVoKWH pic.twitter.com/A3bBQTjpPr
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) January 5, 2023

Thomas is the only offensive lineman voted to 10 consecutive Pro Bowls to start his career. He was a six-time First-Team All-Pro and started 10,363 consecutive snaps through 167 games, which is believed to be the longest streak ever by a player in NFL history.

Thomas was a pillar and one of the only bright spots in Cleveland for many years. His teams had a record of 48-128 in his career, but he showed his loyalty to the city by finishing his playing days where they started.

All 15 players great cases for enshrinement, and Thomas has certainly earned his spot in the conversation. The list will be narrowed down to five at the NFL Honors in Phoenix on Feb. 9, where Thomas deserves to hear his name called.

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