Less than a day after the NFL Combine concluded, the Cleveland Browns made a decisive move by trading a fifth-round draft pick to the Houston Texans in exchange for right tackle Tytus Howard. This trade reflects the Browns’ urgency to address their offensive line issues heading into the 2026 season. Upon acquiring Howard, Browns general manager Andrew Berry quickly secured the player with a three-year contract valued at $63 million, signaling the team’s commitment to bolstering their protection upfront.
Howard’s Proven Experience and Versatility
Tytus Howard brings significant NFL experience, having started 93 games since being the Texans’ first-round pick at No. 23 overall in 2019. Most notably, Howard did not allow a single sack last season and has demonstrated stronger pass-blocking skills compared to his run-blocking. Now approaching his 30th birthday in May, Howard offers the Browns both veteran stability and positional flexibility, given his ability to play right tackle and potentially shift inside to guard if the need arises.
Strategic Approach to Offensive Line Rebuilding
During the NFL Combine week, Cleveland’s front office expressed a clear strategy for renovating their offensive line, inspired by Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles. Berry admired how Poles combined drafting, free-agent acquisitions, and internal player development to quickly improve the Bears’ protection for quarterback Caleb Williams. The Browns’ acquisition of Howard aligns with this balanced approach of blending veteran presence with younger talents on the roster.
“Thinking about the offensive line, I think what Chicago and Ryan Poles did last year is a really good model,” Berry said. “They did a combination of internal development, veteran additions and draft.” – Andrew Berry, Cleveland Browns General Manager
Remaining Draft Picks and Offensive Line Needs
With the Howard trade, the Browns enter the upcoming NFL Draft holding nine selections, providing Berry ample resources to continue refining their offensive front. While the right tackle position appears addressed, the left tackle spot remains an open question. The Browns heavily met with top left tackle prospects, including Georgia’s Monroe Freeling, at the Combine as they prepare their draft plans.
There are also uncertainties at the left guard position, largely tied to Joel Bitonio’s retirement deliberations. The veteran guard, regarded as a cornerstone for the Browns’ offensive line, is contemplating a potential return, which could influence roster planning. Meanwhile, backup center Luke Wypler and tackle Dawand Jones are expected to be healthy contributors in 2026, though this latest investment suggests the Browns might keep them as valuable depth rather than starters.
Looking Ahead to Draft and Roster Development
By addressing right tackle early, Berry has gained flexibility in the first round of the draft to concentrate on other critical offensive line needs, such as the left tackle spot. The Browns’ discussions with premier talents like Miami’s Francis Mauigoa and Utah’s Spencer Fano at the Combine underscore this focused strategy. Their approach combines immediate veteran help with intelligent drafting to build a balanced and robust offensive line for the challenges ahead.
The Cleveland Browns have traded a fifth round pick to the Texans for Tytus Howard. #DawgPound
Get some syrup for those pancakes.
— BIGPLAY (@BIGPLAY) March 2, 2026
