Browns Sign OL Zion Johnson to 3-Year, $49.5M Deal

Looking at the contract details, option bonuses, and incentives for the new Cleveland offensive lineman.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:08pm

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The Cleveland Browns have signed offensive lineman Zion Johnson to a 3-year, $49.5 million contract. The deal includes a $17 million signing bonus, option bonuses, roster bonuses, and incentives based on All-Pro and playoff performance.

Why it matters

The Browns are making a significant investment in Johnson to solidify their offensive line, a key priority for the team as they look to build on their recent success and make a deep playoff run.

The details

Johnson's contract includes a $17 million signing bonus spread over 5 years, as well as option bonuses in 2027, 2028, and 2029 totaling $7.239 million. He also has $510,000 per game roster bonuses in 2026 and a $3 million roster bonus due in 2028. The deal also includes $750,000 in All-Pro and playoff incentives in 2027 and 2028, plus $750,000 in base salary escalators in 2028.

  • The contract was signed in early 2026 free agency.

The players

Zion Johnson

A 3-year veteran offensive lineman who the Browns signed to a lucrative multi-year contract.

Andrew Berry

The Browns' general manager who structured Johnson's contract using a similar approach to other recent deals he has made.

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What’s next

The Browns will look to Johnson to anchor their offensive line and help the team make a deep playoff run in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Browns have made a significant investment in Zion Johnson, showcasing their commitment to building a strong offensive line through strategic contract structures that include signing bonuses, option bonuses, and performance-based incentives.