Browns Add Two Veteran Offensive Linemen

New signings aim to shore up struggling offensive line

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have made two key additions to their offensive line, trading for tackle Tytus Howard and signing free agent guard Zion Johnson. The moves are an attempt to address the team's struggling offensive line, which was ranked as one of the worst in the NFL last season. While the new players may not be stars, they provide reliable veteran presence and should be an upgrade over the previous group.

Why it matters

The Browns' offensive line was a major weakness in 2025, allowing a high number of pressures and sacks. Improving the line is crucial for the team's success, as it will provide better protection for the quarterback and open up running lanes. The additions of Howard and Johnson are a step in the right direction, but the Browns still have more work to do to fully rebuild their offensive line.

The details

The Browns acquired Tytus Howard in a trade with the Houston Texans. Howard is a 29-year-old tackle who has started extensively at both right tackle and guard. He is known as a strong pass blocker, not allowing a sack or QB hit last season. The team also signed free agent guard Zion Johnson to a 3-year, $49 million contract. Johnson is a 26-year-old former first-round pick who has been a consistent starter for the Chargers, though his pass blocking metrics have been below average.

  • The Browns made the trades and signings in March 2026, ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

The players

Tytus Howard

A 29-year-old offensive tackle who was traded from the Houston Texans to the Cleveland Browns. He has started extensively at both right tackle and guard in his NFL career.

Zion Johnson

A 26-year-old offensive guard who signed a 3-year, $49 million free agent contract with the Cleveland Browns. He was a first-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022 and has been a consistent starter in the NFL.

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What they’re saying

“If they are still breathing and not seriously injured, I want them in Cleveland.”

— Terry Pluto, Sports Columnist (cleveland.com)

“There's a reason the Chargers didn't want to spend big to keep him. There's usually a reason most players reach free agency. They've either become too expensive or their former teams believe they can do better.”

— Terry Pluto, Sports Columnist (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Browns still have more work to do to fully rebuild their offensive line, with as many as five openings remaining. They will likely look to address those needs in the upcoming NFL Draft, where they have 10 picks.

The takeaway

The additions of Tytus Howard and Zion Johnson represent an important step in the Browns' efforts to improve their offensive line, which was a major weakness in 2025. While the new players may not be stars, they provide reliable veteran presence and should be an upgrade over the previous group. However, the Browns still have more work to do to fully rebuild their offensive line and protect their quarterback.