Browns Strengthen Offensive Line with Thayer Munford Jr. Following Dawand Jones Injury
The Cleveland Browns have faced a significant setback with the loss of left tackle Dawand Jones, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury sustained in Week 3. As anticipated, Jones has been placed on injured reserve, prompting the team to take swift action to reinforce their offensive line.
Strategic Signing of Thayer Munford Jr.
In response to this pressing need, the Browns have signed offensive tackle Thayer Munford Jr. from the New England Patriots’ practice squad. This move adds essential depth to a position that has recently been depleted.
Munford, a seventh-round pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, has seen action in 46 games throughout his NFL career, starting 18 of those contests. Notably, he achieved a personal best with 10 starts in the current season. Initially, Munford was the starting right tackle for the Raiders last year, but his tenure was short-lived as he was replaced by DJ Glaze, a third-round selection in 2024.
Recent Challenges and Performance Metrics
Despite being projected for a backup role in Las Vegas this season, Munford was released in late August and subsequently signed to the Patriots’ practice squad. Throughout his career, he has experience playing both right and left tackle, although he has predominantly lined up on the right side.
While Munford demonstrated potential in his first two NFL seasons, his performance took a downturn in 2024. His Pro Football Focus grades reflected this decline, with scores of 46.6 in pass protection and 45.3 in run-blocking. Nonetheless, the decision to bring Munford aboard is pragmatic, considering the current injury situation.
Depth Behind an Injured Line
With Jack Conklin also nursing an injury, the addition of Munford becomes even more critical. He is set to provide much-needed support behind Conklin and will step in for Jones’ replacement, Cornelius Lucas. As the Browns look to navigate the remainder of the season, Munford’s versatility and experience may prove invaluable in stabilizing their offensive front.
As the team adjusts to these changes, the focus will remain on maintaining performance levels and ensuring that the offensive line can continue to protect the quarterback effectively.
