The Browns have “no intention” of trading left tackle Joe Thomas, according to Terry Pluto of Cleveland.com. While that’s not an outright declaration that Thomas won’t be dealt, it’s a signal that Cleveland plans to hang onto its All Pro blindside protector.
Thomas, of course, is no stranger to trade rumors, and with the NFL’s trade deadline only two weeks away, it’s no surprise that the 32-year-old is once again the subject of league gossip. The Broncos have long been mentioned as potential suitors — Denver reportedly offered edge rusher Shane Ray plus draft picks for Thomas in 2015, and inquired on Thomas again earlier this year before drafting Garett Bolles.
Thomas, who once again ranks as Pro Football Focus‘ No. 1 tackle, would make sense for a number of contending clubs that are in need of offensive line help. The Texans, Jaguars, and Seahawks are among the clubs that could speculatively be interested in a Thomas acquisition. Seattle, specifically, has met with free agent offensive tackle Branden Albert in recent days and is reportedly interested in Houston holdout Duane Brown.
Given his excellent production, Thomas is eminently affordable. He’s signed through the 2018 campaign, and an acquiring club would be responsible for only the remainder of Thomas’ $8.8MM base salary this year and a $10MM cap hit next season. In a league where the highest-paid offensive tackles are earning $13MM+ annually, Thomas is a bargain.
Cleveland has declined to trade Thomas in past seasons, but the club is now 0-6 and 1-21 since its new regime took over prior to the 2016 season. One recent report indicated the Browns are targeting front office personnel, so any voices in the team’s decision-making hierarchy could theoretically change Cleveland’s view on a Thomas deal.
Who’s greatest NFL player to be stuck playing for losing franchises ever…..? Who else, know Archie Manning had talent, not sure how good he would have been on good team, who’s the Ernie Davis of football….?
Poor Joe Thomas. Guy deserves the chance to win. He deserves better than the Browns.
The Browns are STILL messing up every single move. They are so lucky he still grades out as the #1 tackle. They can still get a good return. Just let him sit there and “rot”, for lack of a better term.
Blindside protector? Overrated.