Jedrick Wills Jr. will soon be playing for his job with the Browns when he returns

When the Cleveland Browns selected Jedrick Wills Jr. in the first round back in 2020, they envisioned things going better than we’ve seen the last couple of years.

At left tackle, Wills has not developed into the franchise play they hoped they selected. It was supposed to patch a hole that was left when Joe Thomas retired. That hasn’t happened and Wills’ future in Cleveland is cloudy.

Right now, Wills will miss at least three more games on the injured reserve with an MCL injury. When he returns, he’s likely going to be playing for his job beyond this season.

Cleveland has already picked up his fifth-year option, but if he doesn’t show he can be a capable guy for next season, they can find a way to move on from him. The most likely option is to find a team that needs a left tackle with upside. There is upside with Wills, as he’s shown he can be that guy. But the consistency has always lacked and the Browns are hoping to compete for a Super Bowl over the next couple of seasons. It wouldn’t be ideal to have poor play at left tackle, the blind side of Deshaun Watson.

Wills is having the worst her of his career in 2023. The Alabama product has already allowed 21 hurries, which will likely top the 24 he allowed last year. His efficiency is down to 94.6, according to Pro Football Focus. That number is a career low, worse than the previous number of 96.

Geron Christian Sr. started for Wills at left tackle in Week 10 against a good Ravens defense. Christian did allow one sack but he graded out at a 67.6 (PFF), which is an improvement from what Wills’ 2023 playing level was.

Cleveland would have to replace Wills in the draft or via a free agency signing or trade. One of those avenues would take place if Cleveland needs to move.

The hope is that Wills can at least be an average player when he returns and work hard this offseason to be better next year. We’re going to learn a lot about his direction toward the end of this season and into the playoffs.