ESPN Grades Browns' Offensive Line Free Agent Signings

Cleveland makes moves to rebuild offensive line, but not all are seen as hits by ESPN analyst.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:04pm

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The Cleveland Browns have been busy in this year's NFL free agency period, making several moves to address needs on the offensive line. ESPN's Seth Walder evaluated the Browns' free agent signings, focusing on the additions of offensive tackles Tytus Howard and Ethan Johnson, as well as guard Wyatt Jenkins. Walder provided grades for each move, with mixed reviews on the value and potential impact of the new players.

Why it matters

The Browns are looking to rebuild their offensive line after a disappointing 2025 season that saw them lose 26 games over the past two years. Improving the offensive line is a key priority for the team as they aim to get their offense back on track. ESPN's analysis provides insight into how the team's free agent moves are being perceived around the league.

The details

The Browns traded a 2026 fifth-round pick to acquire Tytus Howard from the Houston Texans, signing him to a 3-year, $63 million deal. Walder felt this was an overpay for a "below-average starter" who struggles in run blocking. The team also signed Ethan Johnson to a 3-year, $49.5 million contract. While Johnson is a strong run blocker, Walder noted concerns about his pass protection abilities. Finally, the Browns signed Wyatt Jenkins to a 2-year, up to $24 million deal. Walder believes Jenkins has upside if he can return to his 2021 form, but could also end up as just an average guard or center.

  • The Browns made the trade for Tytus Howard on March 2, 2026, a week before the NFL's tampering period began.
  • The Browns signed Ethan Johnson and Wyatt Jenkins during the 2026 NFL free agency period.

The players

Tytus Howard

An offensive tackle acquired by the Browns from the Houston Texans in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round pick. Howard is expected to be the team's starting right tackle.

Ethan Johnson

An offensive lineman signed by the Browns to a 3-year, $49.5 million contract. Johnson is known as a strong run blocker but struggled in pass protection last season.

Wyatt Jenkins

An offensive lineman signed by the Browns to a 2-year, up to $24 million contract. Jenkins has shown the ability to play multiple positions along the line and has upside if he can return to his 2021 form.

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What they’re saying

“In acquiring Howard, an offensive tackle, Cleveland starts the massive rebuild of its offensive line. But was it worth it? I have a hard time seeing how. The Browns are likely getting a below-average starter. And he isn't cheap.”

— Seth Walder, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

“So, given the run blocking and the fact that Johnson is in the prime of his career at age 26, what are the drawbacks? Pass protection -- at least last season. Johnson was in just the fifth percentile in pass block win rate last season, an alarming number that ought to give Cleveland pause.”

— Seth Walder, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

“If Jenkins can get back to his level of play from a few years ago, he will be a steal for Cleveland. If Jenkins ends up an average guard or center, he will be worth it and a much better deal than his new teammate, Zion Johnson (at $16.5 million per year). But Jenkins has upside for more, and that's what makes this such a strong contract for Cleveland.”

— Seth Walder, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Browns will look to integrate their new offensive line pieces during the upcoming offseason program and training camp as they aim to improve on their 2025 performance.

The takeaway

While the Browns have been aggressive in addressing their offensive line needs through free agency, ESPN's analysis suggests the team may have overpaid for some of the new additions and that there are still questions about their ability to significantly upgrade the unit. The Browns will need strong performances from their new linemen to justify the investments made this offseason.