In a league where consistency is key, the Cleveland Browns have a few players who embody the definition of steady play. Both offensive guards Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller, along with defensive end Myles Garrett, showcase this quality on the field. Running back Nick Chubb also falls into this category when he is healthy.
“Consistency is crucial in this game,” said Bitonio. “We work hard every day to make sure we are performing at a high level each time we step on the field.”
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One player who often flies under the radar but epitomizes consistency is long-snapper Charley Hughlett. Hughlett has been with Cleveland since the 2015 season, playing in all 16 games his first year with the team. Since then, he has not missed a single game, playing in 149 straight games for the Browns without any injuries.
“Playing in the NFL for this long without missing a game is a testament to my dedication and hard work,” said Hughlett. “I take pride in my ability to consistently perform my job at a high level.”
Let’s take a closer look at what exactly Hughlett’s job entails. Long-snapping may seem simple, but it is a skill that takes years to perfect. To truly understand the difficulty of the position, try this exercise: grab a friend, a football, and head out to the backyard. Step off 45 feet, then start tossing the ball back and forth. Focus on throwing the ball with precision, without any wobble, and with increasing speed and force.
As you get more comfortable with your passes, have your friend hold their hands at a specific spot – like the middle of your belt – to act as a target. Practice hitting that target consistently with each throw, ensuring that the ball spins smoothly and arrives quickly without any wobble.
Now, take it a step further. Place the football on the ground, assume a long-snapping position (between your legs, looking upside down), and launch the ball 45 feet to your friend. This time, you must throw the ball upside down, backwards, and maintain all the same conditions as before: no wobble, with speed and accuracy.
Mastering the art of long-snapping requires precision and dedication. Just like throwing the ball in the backyard, Hughlett practices his craft relentlessly to ensure that every snap is on target. So the next time you watch a Browns game, take a moment to appreciate the steady play of Charley Hughlett, the unsung hero of the special teams unit.