Left tackle Dawand Jones of the Cleveland Browns is grappling with a challenging injury history as he prepares for the 2026 season. The promising player, drafted in the fourth round from Ohio State, is currently on injured reserve for the second consecutive year, raising questions about his future with the team. Jones suffered a season-ending knee injury in September 2025 while playing against the Green Bay Packers, just four plays into the game.
Jones’s injury history is extensive. After finishing his rookie season on injured reserve, his second year ended similarly due to a fractured ankle. Following ankle surgery, he underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in February 2025 to address an injury sustained during the 2024 season. As of now, Jones is also recovering from shoulder surgery, and his right arm is currently in a sling.
Despite these setbacks, Jones remains determined. “Knowing I’m here with a blessed opportunity, I still have a chance to do my job at least somewhat or get back to being myself,” he stated. “I can’t give up on myself or give up on my team.” He has been diligently rehabbing since his latest surgery, expressing that the process has been a “roller coaster.”
The Browns face a critical decision regarding Jones as they plan for the 2026 season. With a contract valued at $1,145,000 that is not guaranteed, the team must weigh the potential of his recovery against the reality of his injury history. If they choose to retain him, it would mark a gamble on his ability to overcome these challenges.
Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics
This season has seen Mike Bloomgren become the third offensive line coach for Jones in just three years. Previously, Bill Callahan and Andy Dickerson held that position. Bloomgren expressed optimism about Jones’s performance prior to his injury, noting, “You look at the second half of football there in that game against the Ravens on September 14, and it’s the best football we’ve seen from Dawand.” However, he emphasized the need for consistent performance, stating that every play in the NFL demands excellence, especially for a player in Jones’s position.
The Browns’ offensive line faces potential changes as several key players are set to become free agents in March 2026. This list includes left tackle Cam Robinson, left guard Joel Bitonio, center Ethan Pocic, right guard Wyatt Teller, and right tackle Jack Conklin. Backup players, such as Teven Jenkins and Cornelius Lucas, have varying degrees of contract stability, further complicating the team’s planning.
Jones’s recent meeting with Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam highlighted his commitment to the team and his desire to continue playing. “They’ve seen all three of my injuries. There’s nothing I could have done,” he explained, acknowledging the challenges that have shaped his career thus far.
Upcoming Challenges and Team Goals
The Browns are currently navigating a difficult season, with a record of 3-11 as they approach a matchup against the Buffalo Bills on December 21, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field. The Bills come into the game with a record of 10-4, and the Browns are positioned as underdogs with a betting line of +10.
As the team considers its path forward, the decisions regarding Jones and other players will be critical in shaping the future of the franchise. With the possibility of changes in the front office and coaching staff, the upcoming months will be pivotal not only for Jones but for the entire organization.
Jones remains hopeful, stating, “At the end of the day, I’m going to be here. I want to. It’s just that sometimes injuries suck.” His determination to overcome these obstacles will be essential as he aims to secure his place on the roster for the upcoming season.
