Browns Add Offensive Line Talent in Free Agency

Former Chargers guard Zion Johnson sees Cleveland as a 'team on the rise' after joining O-line rebuild

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:51pm

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The Browns have made a concerted effort to rebuild their offensive line this offseason, signing former Chargers guard Zion Johnson to a three-year, $49.5 million deal. Johnson, a 2022 first-round pick, was drawn to Cleveland because of the team's young playmakers and commitment to improving the O-line, which also included trades for Texans tackle Tytus Howard and the signing of Packers center/guard Elgton Jenkins.

Why it matters

The Browns struggled with inconsistency on the offensive line last season, which limited the production of their young skill position players like running back Quinshon Judkins. By investing heavily in the O-line this offseason, the Browns are signaling their intent to build around their talented roster and make a push towards the playoffs.

The details

Johnson, 26, has started the past three seasons at left guard but also has experience at right guard and center. He will provide versatility and depth to the Browns' offensive line, which is awaiting a retirement decision from longtime left guard Joel Bitonio. Johnson is excited to learn from Bitonio and play alongside new additions Tytus Howard and Elgton Jenkins, who he believes will elevate the unit. The Browns also hired respected offensive line coach George Warhop, which was a major draw for Johnson in choosing Cleveland.

  • In Week 5 of the 2025 season, Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins broke off a 56-yard touchdown run that was called back due to a holding penalty.
  • On March 13, 2026, the Browns signed Zion Johnson to a three-year, $49.5 million contract.

The players

Zion Johnson

A 26-year-old offensive guard who was a 2022 first-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers and has started the past three seasons at left guard.

Quinshon Judkins

A rookie running back for the Browns in 2025 who had a 56-yard touchdown run called back due to a penalty.

Joel Bitonio

The longest-tenured member of the Browns, a 12-year veteran left guard who has been selected to seven Pro Bowls and named to two All-Pro teams.

Tytus Howard

A starting right tackle for the Texans who the Browns traded for and signed to a three-year, $63 million extension.

Elgton Jenkins

A free agent center/guard from the Packers who the Browns signed to a two-year, $24 million contract.

George Warhop

The Browns' offensive line coach, who has a strong reputation throughout the league as one of the best in the business.

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What they’re saying

“I thought, man, if I had the opportunity to block for somebody like that, the sky's the limit.”

— Zion Johnson (cleveland.com)

“I think the pitch for me was clear. I mean, looking at the team from outside in, for me, it looked like a team on the rise. There's a lot of pieces. The front office is very hell-bent on improving the offensive line, improving the team as a whole.”

— Zion Johnson (cleveland.com)

“As offensive linemen, we love to watch our peers, see things that they do well, see things that we can steal for our own game. And both of those guys are really, really good players.”

— Zion Johnson (cleveland.com)

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

By aggressively addressing their offensive line needs in free agency, the Browns have signaled their intent to build around their young, talented roster and make a push towards the playoffs. The additions of Zion Johnson, Tytus Howard, and Elgton Jenkins, combined with the veteran leadership of Joel Bitonio, should provide a significant boost to the team's running game and pass protection.