Browns Bolster O-Line With Tytus Howard Trade

Cleveland adds veteran tackle, but center position remains a need

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have traded for Houston Texans right tackle Tytus Howard, shoring up one of their offensive line needs. However, the team still has a vacancy at the center position heading into free agency.

Why it matters

The Browns' offensive line was a weakness last season, so addressing that unit was a top priority this offseason. While the Howard trade helps solidify the tackle spots, the team still needs to find a long-term solution at center to protect quarterback Deshaun Watson.

The details

Howard, a 29-year-old veteran, is expected to start at right tackle for the Browns this season. The move allows Cleveland some flexibility in free agency, as they now have two starting-caliber tackles with Howard and Dawand Jones, who started at left tackle before a season-ending injury in 2025.

  • The Browns made the trade for Tytus Howard on Monday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns.

Todd Monken

The head coach of the Cleveland Browns.

Tytus Howard

A 29-year-old veteran offensive tackle who was traded from the Houston Texans to the Cleveland Browns.

Dawand Jones

The Cleveland Browns' starting left tackle in 2025 before suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 3.

Deshaun Watson

The quarterback of the Cleveland Browns.

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What’s next

The Browns will now need to address the center position in free agency, as that remains a key need on the offensive line.

The takeaway

The Browns have taken an important step in bolstering their offensive line by acquiring Tytus Howard, but they still have work to do to solidify the center position and protect quarterback Deshaun Watson.