Kevin

Shaffer

Shaffer did not return to the game. He was replaced by guard Steve Herndon.

The 32-year-old has “no plans to return.” Now pursuing a coaching career, Shaffer is currently working with draft-eligibles at the Senior Bowl and in pre-Combine training. Shaffer was considered one of the NFL’s top zone-blocking left tackles during the early- to mid-2000s with Michael Vick and Warrick Dunn. He later busted in power-blocking schemes with Cleveland and Chicago.

With Eric Wright also agreeing to a deal, Brady Quinn is the lone Browns draft pick left unsigned. Thomas, a marvelous pass blocker, should be the team’s starting left tackle right away. If he progresses quickly, the Browns may consider shopping incumbent LT Kevin Shaffer to the Colts, who recently lost Tarik Glenn to retirement, or re-opening trade talks with the Giants.

Joe Thomas appears to be taking over on the blind side. The Browns will either try to move Shaffer before Week 1, or let him battle Ryan Tucker.

Tucker’s status with the team will be re-evaluated after the suspension. He’ll continue to practice, but with the second and third units. Kevin Shaffer will move from left to right tackle and rookie Joe Thomas will move into the starting blind side position.

Good news for the running game and whoever will be quarterbacking the offense come Week 1. Steinbach, flanked by Hank Fraley and Kevin Shaffer at practice Wednesday, will likely soon have Joe Thomas to his left side.