The Cleveland Browns are gearing up to enter the free agency period, beginning their legal discussions with potential free agents on Monday at noon. Although the official opening of free agency is set for Wednesday, teams can commence negotiations beforehand. Following the NFL Combine, General Manager Andrew Berry indicated that the Browns plan to be more proactive in their free agency efforts compared to last year. He acknowledged that it might take until 2027 for the team to be “hyper aggressive” in this arena.
As the legal tampering period kicks off, fans can anticipate a focus on improving the offensive line. Both Berry and new head coach Todd Monken have emphasized the need for upgrades in this area. The recent acquisition of starting right tackle Tytus Howard signals their commitment to strengthening the line. There is speculation about whether the franchise”s left tackle could be found in free agency, particularly with Rasheed Walker of the Green Bay Packers potentially being available. The rarity of starting left tackles in free agency raises questions about why the Packers might let him go.
The Browns are expected to invest in their interior offensive line as well. A notable target could be Tyler Linderbaum, the center from the Baltimore Ravens, who already has a rapport with Monken. Meanwhile, the team is awaiting a decision from veteran left guard Joel Bitonio, who is considering retirement. If Bitonio steps away, the Browns will need to seek replacements for him, as well as for Ethan Pocic and Wyatt Teller, through free agency.
However, the wide receiver market may not be as favorable for the Browns. Players like Alec Pierce from the Indianapolis Colts are unlikely targets, and other options, such as Wan”Dale Robinson of the New York Giants and Rashid Shaheed, a return specialist from the Seattle Seahawks, will likely attract multiple suitors. This situation may prompt Berry to consider trades, similar to past acquisitions like Amari Cooper and Jerry Jeudy, who both delivered impressive seasons for the Browns.
On the defensive side, there is hope that linebacker Devin Bush will return to the Browns. Under defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, Bush enjoyed two of his best seasons. Should the Browns lose out on Bush, new defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg might look to recruit Kaden Elliss, a linebacker who is a free agent from the Atlanta Falcons.
The status of cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. remains uncertain following his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon, which sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. Additionally, the Browns may take a cautious approach regarding their punter position, as Corey Bojorquez had a significant drop in performance last season. Typically, teams that are retooling avoid pursuing high-cost punters.
As the start of free agency approaches, the Browns are poised to address several critical positions before the upcoming draft, where they will have nine selections to further enhance their roster.
