Wills Jr. Eyes 2026 Return After Injuries

Jedrick Wills Jr., the former Cleveland Browns offensive tackle and 10th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has announced his intention to sit out most, if not all, of the 2025 NFL season as he focuses on recovering from persistent knee injuries. At just 26 years old, Wills quickly established himself as a reliable and promising left tackle following a distinguished college career at Alabama. During his early NFL tenure, he started an impressive 48 of 53 games, playing a crucial role in anchoring the Browns' offensive line.

Unfortunately, injuries have significantly impacted Wills’ performance and availability in recent seasons. Over the past two years, he has been limited to only 13 appearances and 12 starts—a sharp decline compared to his earlier consistent presence. In the 2024 season, he was on the field for just 245 offensive snaps, accounting for roughly 20.8 percent of Cleveland’s total offensive plays. During that period, Wills struggled with mobility issues related to his knee, which contributed to him allowing three sacks and committing seven penalties—numbers that fell short of the expectations placed on a player of his caliber.

Despite receiving interest from multiple NFL teams eager to acquire his services, Wills has determined that taking ample time off to fully heal and rehabilitate his knee is the most prudent course of action for his long-term career and overall health. This decision underscores his commitment not only to returning stronger but also to preserving his future in professional football. By prioritizing recovery now, Wills aims to regain his peak form and durability, with hopes of eventually reestablishing himself as a dominant force on the offensive line.