BEREA, Ohio -- Center Alex Mack will be full-go when the Cleveland Browns open training camp Thursday, coach Mike Pettine said.

Alex Mack's absence last season proved a key loss for the Browns offense. AP Photo/Tony Dejak

Mack has been cleared to take part in all drills after suffering a broken ankle that cost him 11 games last season.

The Browns may be cautious in how much they ask of Mack in camp. But his return nonetheless bolsters the offensive line, a team strength.

"We feel our starting five are pretty good," Pettine said. "If [first-round pick Cam Erving] cracks that lineup, he's earned it."

Mack proved how valuable he was to the line last season when he got hurt in the Week 5 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.

According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Browns averaged 4.4 yards per carry with Mack on the field and 3.3 without him. They averaged 6.0 yards per play with him and 4.8 without him.

With Mack, Cleveland's touchdown-to-interception ratio was 7-1; without him it was 5-15. And the Browns' total QBR with Mack was 75.0; without him it was 24.6.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Mack can opt out of his contract with the Browns and become a free agent after the season.