The Cleveland Browns did not wait for free agency to address their offensive line.
With more than a week before the new league year begins, the Browns agreed to trade for Houston Texans lineman Tytus Howard in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. The deal cannot become official until March 11, but it already signals Cleveland’s intent to reshape a unit that battled injuries and inconsistency last season.
Shortly after news of the trade surfaced, Howard spoke publicly for the first time.
“I wasn’t surprised,” Howard told KPRC-TV in Houston. “They’re trying to get younger and pay some guys. I ain’t mad. I kind of knew it was going to happen.”
Howard, a 2019 first-round pick out of Alabama State, started 93 games over seven seasons with the Texans. He played right tackle, left tackle and both guard spots during his career, including multiple positions in 2025. That versatility likely appealed to a Browns team with five offensive linemen headed toward free agency and uncertainty surrounding veteran guard Joel Bitonio’s future.
Houston is undergoing a significant overhaul of its offensive line. One year after trading left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders, the Texans moved another cornerstone blocker. The trade sheds Howard’s previous contract and aligns with Houston’s effort to manage future extensions, including potential mega-deals on the defensive side of the ball.
Howard is signing a three-year, $63 million extension with Cleveland that includes $45 million in new money. The deal reflects his market value and could help structure his upcoming cap hits.
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On the field, Howard is coming off a solid season. According to Next Gen Stats, he allowed a pressure rate of 4.8%. Pro Football Focus ranked him 17th out of 89 tackles in pass-blocking efficiency, and he did not allow a sack in 2025. He has played at least 14 games in four of the past five seasons and appeared in 18 games, including playoffs, in each of the last two years.
“I just appreciate the support over the last seven years,” Howard said. “I’ll always be a Texan forever. I’m excited to go to Cleveland and turn the city up and help change the program and win some games.”
For Cleveland, the move comes as it evaluates a line that struggled with injuries. Dawand Jones is the only projected starter under contract for 2026 and is recovering from a knee injury.
The Browns still hold the sixth and 24th picks in the upcoming draft and could continue investing up front. Howard’s arrival offers flexibility. His experience across three positions may allow Cleveland to address multiple needs while better protecting its quarterback next season.
As the new league year approaches, both teams appear to be positioning for different futures. Howard now becomes a central piece in Cleveland’s plan to stabilize and strengthen its offense.