Joe Thomas Says Getting Statue At Browns' New Stadium Would Be 'Unbelievable'

Former Cleveland Browns legend Joe Thomas has expressed deep humility and gratitude at the idea of being honored with a statue at the team’s proposed new stadium, calling the possibility “unbelievable” and far beyond anything he ever imagined during his playing career. The comments reflect both Thomas’ longstanding connection to the Browns and his reputation as one of the most respected players in franchise history.

Thomas, a first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer, spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Browns, a rare feat in modern professional football. Drafted third overall in 2007, he quickly established himself as one of the most dominant offensive linemen the league has ever seen. Despite playing on teams that often struggled to win, Thomas’ individual excellence never wavered, earning him 10 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and six first-team All-Pro honors.

When asked about the possibility of being commemorated with a statue at a future Browns stadium, Thomas responded with visible amazement. He emphasized that such recognition would be an incredible honor, especially considering the many great players who have worn a Browns uniform over the decades. For Thomas, the thought of being immortalized alongside franchise icons is both humbling and surreal.

Thomas has long been admired not just for his elite performance, but for his loyalty. At a time when star players frequently change teams in pursuit of championships or contracts, Thomas remained committed to Cleveland through coaching changes, front-office turnover, and multiple rebuilding phases. His decision to stay with the Browns, even when playoff success proved elusive, has become a defining part of his legacy.

That loyalty has helped cement his standing among Browns fans, who often view Thomas as a symbol of professionalism and perseverance. For many supporters, he represents what the franchise aspires to be: tough, consistent, and resilient. The idea of honoring him with a statue resonates deeply with a fan base that values players who embrace the city and its football culture.

Thomas has previously spoken about how much Cleveland means to him, noting that the city embraced him from the moment he arrived as a young offensive tackle out of Wisconsin. Over the years, he became an active presence in the community, participating in charitable efforts and maintaining a strong connection with fans. Even after retirement, Thomas has remained closely associated with the Browns through media work and public appearances.

The concept of a new Browns stadium has reignited conversations about how the franchise should honor its most iconic figures. Statues are often reserved for players who not only excelled on the field but also left a lasting cultural impact. Thomas’ candid reaction suggests he understands the significance of such recognition and does not take it lightly.

From a football perspective, Thomas’ credentials are unquestionable. He played 10,363 consecutive snaps to begin his career, an NFL record that underscores his durability and consistency. For over a decade, quarterbacks and running backs benefited from his reliability at left tackle, even if team success did not always follow. Many analysts consider him one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history, regardless of team achievements.

Thomas has acknowledged that offensive linemen rarely receive the same level of public recognition as skill-position players. That reality makes the idea of a statue even more meaningful, not just for him personally, but for the position he played. He has often joked about linemen being overlooked, while also expressing pride in representing the role at the highest level.

While no official announcement has been made regarding statues or specific honorees at a new stadium, Thomas’ comments have energized fans and fueled speculation. Many supporters believe he is an obvious choice, given his Hall of Fame status and unwavering commitment to the franchise. Others see the discussion as a broader celebration of Browns history and a chance to reconnect the team’s future with its past.

Thomas, however, has remained grounded in his response. Rather than lobbying for recognition, he focused on gratitude, saying that simply being remembered fondly by fans is already more than he ever expected. His reaction reflects the same understated approach that defined his playing career: doing the work, showing up every week, and letting others speak to the results.

As plans for the Browns’ future continue to take shape, Joe Thomas’ legacy remains firmly intact. Whether or not a statue ultimately bears his likeness, his impact on the franchise and the city of Cleveland is undeniable. For many fans, he already stands as a monument to excellence, loyalty, and quiet greatness.