Browns Spend Big on Offensive Line Overhaul in 2026 Free Agency

Cleveland makes a statement by signing several veteran linemen to protect their QB and boost the run game

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:27pm

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The Cleveland Browns have been aggressive in free agency, spending heavily to overhaul their offensive line. They signed Pro Bowl center Elgton Jenkins, guard Zion Johnson, and traded for tackle Tytus Howard, while also retaining Teven Jenkins. On defense, they added edge rusher AJ Epenesa and linebacker Quincy Williams. The goal is to establish a physical identity up front and protect the quarterback after a disappointing 5-12 season in 2025.

Why it matters

The Browns struggled mightily on offense in 2025, with poor offensive line play leading to inconsistency and injuries at quarterback. By investing heavily in the trenches, the team is signaling a commitment to building a dominant, physical unit that can control the line of scrimmage and open up the running game. This overhaul is crucial for the Browns to compete in the tough AFC North division.

The details

The Browns' biggest move was signing two-time Pro Bowl center Elgton Jenkins to a two-year, $24 million contract. They also signed guard Zion Johnson to a high-priced deal, giving them one of the top interior offensive line duos in the NFL. Cleveland traded for tackle Tytus Howard and signed him to an extension, while retaining versatile lineman Teven Jenkins. On defense, the team added edge rusher AJ Epenesa and linebacker Quincy Williams to improve their front seven.

  • The Browns' 2026 free agency moves occurred over the first two weeks of the new league year.

The players

Elgton Jenkins

A two-time Pro Bowl center who the Browns signed to a two-year, $24 million contract to stabilize their offensive line.

Zion Johnson

A durable and high-level guard who the Browns signed to a lucrative deal to pair with Elgton Jenkins on the interior of their offensive line.

Tytus Howard

A proven tackle who the Browns traded for and then immediately signed to a three-year extension, providing veteran stability on the right side of the offensive line.

Teven Jenkins

A versatile depth piece on the offensive line who the Browns re-signed to a relatively modest deal, ensuring continuity up front.

AJ Epenesa

A productive and physical edge rusher who the Browns signed to a veteran deal to provide depth and rotation behind star pass rusher Myles Garrett.

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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

What’s next

The Browns will look to integrate their new offensive line pieces during the offseason program and training camp, with the goal of establishing a dominant, physical identity up front to protect their quarterback and jumpstart the running game.

The takeaway

The Browns have made a clear statement this offseason that they are committed to building a dominant offensive line to support their long-term plans at quarterback. By investing heavily in proven veterans, they are betting that a revitalized front five can help them return to the playoffs and compete in the tough AFC North.