The Browns believe Mitchell Schwartz to be one of the top right tackles in the game.

I don’t believe that for even a moment. In fact, I believe just the opposite, and have for a long, long time.

Everybody wants to put Schwartz, who will likely hit the free-agent market, onto the same level as two of his teammates, center Alex Mack, who has already opted out of his contract and is set to be a free agent, and free safety Tashaun Gipson, who appears headed to free agency.

That’s nonsense. Mack and Gipson are Pro Bowlers. Schwartz is average – at best.

Really, when in the world did Schwartz turn into Cody Risien and Monte Clark, the two best right tackles in the team history behind Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike McCormack?

Do the eye test when you think about Schwartz. There are constant leaks through, over and around him on the right side of the Browns offensive line, causing problems for both the running and passing games. People point to his “great” efforts against the talented speed rushers of the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals. Assuming that is true – and I don’t, not even in the least bit – I want to know how he played in the other 14 games. Not very well.

Sure, if the Browns want to bring Schwartz back, that’s up to them. But the first priorities should be to keep Mack and Gipson from getting away. After that, if they have the resources to retain Schwartz, that’s great. And if they don’t, then that’s even better.