The Cleveland Browns returned to the playing field in 1999 after a brief three-year window when their original organization was moved to Baltimore after the conclusion of the 1995 season.

Since that move was made much of the current conversations revolve around what’s happened since 1999. The new Cleveland organization has had its problems over the last two decades with numerous coaching changes and over 30 quarterbacks trying their hand at leading the team.

While there have been issues, they’ve still put together some squads over the years that have played tough and even gotten into the postseason a time or two. Along the way, numerous players have shown true grit and dedication to being the very best.

We want to recognize those players in this series. Qualifying for being in the top 10 included playing for the Browns for three seasons or more. Several high-profile players have come through town over the years, but not many of them did much in their time with the Browns.

So, if you’re expecting to see Odell Beckham Jr. on this list you won’t. This list does include a couple of current players as well so we can point out their outstanding accomplishments already.

No. 1 all-time Cleveland Browns player since 1999- Joe Thomas, OL
Joe Thomas is not only the best player to play for the Browns since 1999, but he’s also one of the best offensive tackles in NFL history. He was always steady, consistent, and suited up every Sunday.

The former Wisconsin Badger played every down from the time he was drafted third overall in the 2007 NFL Draft until he suffered a career-ending triceps injury in 2017. That was 10,363 straight snaps in 167 straight games. That’s truly a remarkable feat when you see the physicality he played with.

Thomas was a 10-time Pro Bowler and was selected to the Football Hall of Fame in Canton in 2023. In addition to these honors, he was also a six-time All-Pro and was part of the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame All-2010s Team.

Since leaving the game, he often reflects on that amazing accomplishment of never missing a game in his career and he’ll mention how he tried to be a reliable and consistent player for his teammates.

Despite playing for an abysmal team for much of his career, he continued to try and be the best he could be and refused to be traded to contenders. He was focused on helping the franchise that believed in him and wanted to help the team turn the corner.

One player can’t change the success of a team, but Thomas did what he could to defend his quarterbacks and open gaps for his running backs. The loyalty that Thomas gave to Cleveland will always be remembered fondly by fans.