BEREA, Ohio — Much has been made about the Browns' offensive line, which Pro Football Focus currently has ranked in the bottom half of the NFL.
Some have speculated the team could make changes to the unit. Head cocah Freddie Kitchens, however, is remaining tight-lipped.
"You guys are...asking the same question over and over," Kitchens told reporters inquiring about the O-Line Monday. "I don't know if we're making a change yet, and if I did, I wouldn't tell you."
A good chunk of the criticism has revolved around left tackle Greg Robinson. The 26-year-old became the starter last season during Week 9 and was solid during the Browns' second-half renaissance. This year has been more shaky, however, and rumors have abounded about someone currently on the team taking his place or even a possible trade being made for disgruntled Washington Redskins Pro Bowler Trent Williams.
Kitchens did not address specifics on this day, but did state that any possible changes cannot be made "very lightly."
"There is a lot of thought that goes into that, and when you make a change, you expect it to be for the best," he said. "If we were to do that, that is what it would be. It would be with the thinking that it would be for the best for the unit and for the team."
According to Kitchens, several players got reps at different positions on the line Monday. That included former Green Bay Packer Justin McCray, who was acquired immediately after training camp and started at guard during the Week 3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
"Justin is one of our more versatile guys," Kitchens pointed out. "If he were to go out there at tackle, I would have total confidence in him."
McCray, for his part, says he is "naturally" accustomed to guard, but can fit in anywhere.
"I have been here a couple of weeks now, but anywhere they asked me to go, they believe in, they voiced that they believe in me and I can feel that in the room so that is always good," he said.
Still, Kitchens says any possible changes to the O-Line will be "[his] call" and no one else's, including those in the Browns front office.
"Do I get input from other people? Yes, I do," he explained. "That is the reason why we put together an experienced staff so I can get their opinions. Ultimately, it is my fault if it goes bad so it is my decision.”
BUD SHAW'S SPORTS SPIN: The Browns need improvement in a lot of areas, starting with head coach Freddie Kitchens