The quarterback position remains the biggest uncertainty for the Browns, with Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and even Deshaun Watson set to compete in 2026. While the quarterback could dominate the headlines in the summer, he’s unlikely to be the focus of the spring.
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Instead, general manager Andrew Berry and coach Todd Monken aim to shore up key areas of the roster to give the starting quarterback in 2026 the best chance to succeed. That starts on the offensive line, where nearly all of the starters from 2025 onwards are free agents. Cleveland will likely turn to both the draft and free agency to rebuild its trenches.
Defensively, the Browns are replacing linebacker Devin Bush, who is cashing in after a resurgent season. Adding weapons around Jerry Jeudy and Harold Fannin Jr. is also expected to be a priority after a dismal offensive year.
Here’s a look at the latest Browns news, rumors, signings and trades in free agency.
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Browns free agency rumors, news and updates
Quincy Williams replaces Devin Bush on Browns defense
After losing resurgent linebacker Devin Bush to the Bears on Monday, the Browns are giving linebacker Quincy Williams a two-year contract. Williams spent five seasons as the Jets’ starter and was All-Pro in 2023, although he struggled more last season. Williams reunites with Browns DC Mike Rutenberg, who was his position coach from 2021-24 in New York.
The Browns add Zion Johnson to the offensive line
With much of their offensive line on the open market, the Browns are adding a second starting lineman with a three-year, $49.5 million contract for former Chargers guard Zion Johnson. Johnson was a first-round pick in 2022 and has been a full-time starter since entering the NFL, although he didn’t play well enough for Los Angeles to exercise his fifth-year option.
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Browns acquire OT Tytus Howard from Texans
The Browns acquired OT Tytus Howard from the Texans in exchange for a fifth-round pick and will give him a new two-year, $45 million extension. Howard, a former first-round pick, has primarily been a starting right tackle since joining the Texans in 2019 and helps fill the void left by numerous Browns offensive linemen hitting the open market.
Browns free agency signings
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Browns sign OG Zion Johnson to a three-year, $49.5 million deal.
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“Browns sign ILB Quincy Williams to two-year deal”.
Browns completed trades
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“Browns acquire OT Tytus Howard from Texans”.