The Cleveland Browns have moved aggressively to address their offensive line needs during the early stages of NFL free agency. General manager Andrew Berry orchestrated a flurry of moves, trading for Tytus Howard and signing guards Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins to bolster a unit that struggled significantly in 2025. The Browns sent a fifth-round pick to Houston for Howard, a versatile lineman who played multiple positions last season.

Berry's overhaul comes after six offensive linemen, including four Week 1 starters, became unrestricted free agents. The team ranked 20th in pass block win rate and 24th in run block win rate last season, allowing pressure on 39.1% of dropbacks - the highest rate in the NFL. Johnson, the No. 17 pick in the 2022 draft, struggled in pass protection but excelled in run blocking, ranking second among guards in that metric. Jenkins, a two-time Pro Bowler, brings experience after playing both guard and center for the Packers.

The Browns' aggressive approach leaves left tackle as the only remaining hole, potentially to be filled through the draft. While quarterback discussions dominated external conversations about Cleveland, the organization prioritized offensive line improvements first, hoping to create better protection and running lanes for whoever takes snaps under center.