The Cleveland Browns have taken their first step toward overhauling the offensive line for 2026, acquiring veteran tackle Tytus Howard from the Houston Texans in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday.
As part of the deal, Howard, who was entering the final year of his contract, signed a new three-year, $63 million extension, keeping him under contract through the 2029 season.
“I wasn't surprised,” Howard told KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson. “They're trying to get younger and pay some guys. I ain't mad. I kind of knew it was going to happen. I just appreciate the support over the last seven years. I'll always be a Texan forever. I'm excited to go to Cleveland and turn the city up, help change the program, and win some games.”
A first-round pick in 2019, Howard started 93 games over seven seasons in Houston. He’s known as a strong pass blocker, primarily on the right side, but has been inconsistent in run blocking.
The acquisition gives Cleveland position flexibility along the line. Howard can play right tackle or slide inside to either guard spot; in 2025, he logged 628 snaps at right tackle, 402 at left guard, and 132 at right guard.
The Browns enter the offseason with multiple O-line starters set to hit free agency, including Joel Bitonio, Jack Conklin, Ethan Pocic, Wyatt Teller, Cam Robinson, and Teven Jenkins. Rebuilding the line is a top priority for general manager Andrew Berry, and adding a proven, versatile veteran like Howard is the first move in what promises to be a busy offseason.
For Houston, the trade marks another chapter in a continuing offensive line rebuild. Moving one of its more experienced linemen frees up cap space and creates room for upgrades, particularly in the run game. The Texans also recently traded two picks and lineman Juice Scruggs to Detroit for running back David Montgomery, signaling more roster changes to come.
Texans GM Nick Caserio has overhauled Houston’s O-line over multiple seasons with mixed results. The team will again turn to free agency and the draft to upgrade protection for a new starting quarterback and running back combination.
