The NFL free agency period, including the legal tampering phase, is set to open on Monday, marking a critical stretch for the Cleveland Browns as they prepare for upcoming roster changes. With several key players, including multiple starters, entering free agency, the Browns face significant decisions on how to restructure their team, especially on offense.
Potential Departures Among Browns’ Key Players in Free Agency
The Cleveland Browns are expected to lose up to nine important contributors during the upcoming free agency period. Most of these players play pivotal roles, particularly on the offensive line, where every starter is set to hit the open market. Although veteran left guard Joel Bitonio is among the pending free agents, his future with the team is uncertain as he may retire or re-sign with the Browns.
Wyatt Teller’s Uncertain Future Following a Successful Tenure
The Browns acquired right guard Wyatt Teller in 2019 from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a late-round draft pick, a trade that has paid dividends. Teller quickly became a three-time Pro Bowler and a respected leader both on and off the field. Despite often missing brief periods with injuries, his skill as a run blocker combined with solid, if inconsistent, pass protection made him a valuable asset.
However, Cleveland’s desire to rejuvenate its offensive line and focus on younger talent has led to Teller’s likely departure, even though he expressed interest in returning to the team.
Devin Bush’s Growth as a Defensive Force
Linebacker Devin Bush, a former first-round pick from Michigan, represents a reclamation success story for the Browns. After several seasons of underwhelming performance following his highly anticipated 2019 draft, Bush dramatically improved under linebackers coach Jason Tarver in 2025. Recording 125 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions, Bush emerged near Pro Bowl caliber.
Playing alongside standout linebacker Carson Schwesinger and behind a formidable defensive line made a difference, but Bush’s coverage ability and sideline-to-sideline speed truly set him apart. His resurgence was one of the bright spots in an otherwise challenging season for Cleveland.
David Njoku’s Waning Role and Potential Exit
Tight end David Njoku, once a key offensive target for the Browns, is also expected to enter free agency. Although he has been a strong locker room presence, the emergence of rookie Harold Fannin Jr., drafted by Cleveland last season, diminished Njoku’s role in the offense. Over the past two seasons, injuries have limited Njoku’s availability, leading to only 293 receiving yards in 12 games during 2025.
Njoku’s peak came in 2023 when he earned a Pro Bowl selection after recording 882 yards and six touchdowns. While he may no longer be a primary tight end, Njoku still has the ability to impact games as a situational player who can challenge defenders.
Martin Emerson Jr.’s Recovery and Prospects After Injury
Cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. impressed early in his career after being taken in the third round of the 2022 draft, quickly earning a starting role opposite Denzel Ward. His first two seasons included four interceptions and strong defensive performances. However, a severe Achilles injury during training camp caused him to miss the entire 2025 season, dampening his expected breakout year.
The Browns and other teams will closely evaluate Emerson’s post-injury form. Known for matching up well against larger receivers, Emerson has shown promise as a potential Pro Bowl-level player if he can regain health and playing form.
Jack Conklin’s Ongoing Battle with Injuries
Right tackle Jack Conklin’s NFL career has been marred by injuries. Although still capable when healthy, he has struggled to stay on the field, playing more than 12 games in a season only once since 2020. He appeared in eight games during 2025 before his season ended prematurely. Approaching 32 years old, Conklin’s future as an active player is uncertain, with retirement a plausible outcome.
If he continues, teams seeking experienced tackle depth or a situational starter might find value in Conklin’s veteran presence, assuming he can maintain his health.
Cam Robinson’s Role as a Veteran Depth Option
The Browns acquired Cam Robinson mid-season in 2025 to address injuries on the offensive line. Robinson struggled throughout his tenure, allowing eight sacks, numerous pressures, and committing 14 penalties over 755 snaps. His overall performance rating dropped significantly compared to the previous year, signaling a decline from his earlier productivity.
Robinson’s future as a reliable starting tackle is questionable, but his experience and relative health make him a viable candidate for a swing tackle role on another roster.
Ethan Pocic’s Recovery and Future Contributions
Center Ethan Pocic, signed by Cleveland in 2022, provided stability on the offensive line despite missing some games each year. Unfortunately, an Achilles tear in Week 14 of 2025 sidelines him indefinitely, and his return timeline remains unclear.
Pocic’s departure aligns with the Browns’ plan to develop younger players along the offensive line. Should another team acquire Pocic, they would likely view him as a depth piece with potential upside depending on his recovery progress.
Shelby Harris’s Dependable Presence on Defense
Defensive tackle Shelby Harris continues to be a valuable contributor on Cleveland’s interior defensive line. Combining pass-rush ability with run-stopping skills, Harris remains a rotational player capable of spot starts. His leadership and consistent health have made him a strong locker room presence.
In 2025, Harris recorded 32 tackles and a sack across 17 games, including five starts. The Browns may wish to retain Harris given his steady number and locker room influence.
Jerome Ford’s Reduced Role and Prospects Elsewhere
Running back Jerome Ford’s future with the Browns appears limited following diminished playing time in 2025. Ford had a productive 2023 season, amassing 813 rushing yards as he shouldered primary duties during Nick Chubb’s injury absence. In 2024, he managed 565 yards and three touchdowns but saw his touches drop sharply last season.
The Browns’ investment in rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson contributed to Ford’s decreased role. Ford’s blocking ability on third downs remains an asset. Other teams may value him as a reliable No. 2 or No. 3 back with potential for increased workload opportunities.
The Browns’ Roster Outlook as Free Agency Approaches
As the Browns face a pivotal free agency period, the departure of seasoned contributors creates challenges but also opportunities for team renewal. The offensive line overhaul, in particular, signals a strategic shift towards youth and rebuilding. Defensive players like Devin Bush and Shelby Harris offer reasons for optimism amid uncertainty.
How the Browns maneuver in free agency will significantly influence their competitiveness in the coming seasons, setting the stage for new leadership and fresh talent to emerge.
