Browns Prepare for Aggressive Free Agency Push

Cleveland looks to fix offensive line and make trades as legal tampering period begins

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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With the NFL Combine in the rearview mirror, the Cleveland Browns have been preparing for free agency. While free agency technically doesn't open until Wednesday, teams are allowed to agree on deals with free agents on Monday at noon. Browns general manager Andrew Berry said the team will be more aggressive in free agency than they were last year, with a focus on fixing the offensive line and potentially making trades for wide receivers or other positions of need.

Why it matters

The Browns are looking to build on their 2025 season and make a deeper playoff run. Upgrading the offensive line and adding playmakers on offense will be crucial to their success. Berry has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the trade market, which could allow the Browns to fill holes without relying solely on free agency.

The details

The Browns are expected to target offensive linemen in free agency, with left tackle and center being top priorities. They could make a push for Green Bay Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker or Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum. The team is also waiting to see if longtime left guard Joel Bitonio will retire. On defense, the Browns hope to re-sign linebacker Devin Bush, but may look to Kaden Elliss of the Atlanta Falcons if they can't keep Bush. The future of cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. is also uncertain after he missed the 2025 season with an Achilles injury.

  • The legal tampering period begins on Monday, March 11, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.
  • Free agency officially opens on Wednesday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns who has said the team will be more aggressive in free agency this year.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns who has emphasized the need to fix the team's offensive line.

Rasheed Walker

The starting left tackle for the Green Bay Packers who could be a target for the Browns in free agency.

Tyler Linderbaum

The starting center for the Baltimore Ravens who could be a free agent target for the Browns.

Joel Bitonio

The longtime starting left guard for the Cleveland Browns who is mulling retirement.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.