As the NFL gears up for another thrilling season, the Cleveland Browns are poised for a significant transformation, particularly along their offensive line. With the 2026 league year on the horizon, Browns fans can expect some big changes up front.
Veterans like Joel Bitonio, 2023 draft pick Dawand Jones, and 2025 free agent signing Teven Jenkins might still be part of the mix, but Browns GM Andrew Berry hinted at a major overhaul during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Berry drew parallels to the 2025 Chicago Bears' strategy, where GM Ryan Poles revamped their offensive line, sparking a remarkable turnaround.
Chicago's approach involved replacing four of their five starters, with Darnell Wright, their 2023 first-round pick, as the mainstay. They also kept left tackle Braxton Jones but drafted Ozzy Trapilo in 2025, who took over as a starter mid-season.
The Bears bolstered their line by acquiring veteran guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, and signing center Drew Dalman. This revamped line became the foundation for one of the NFL’s top rushing offenses, propelling the Bears to an NFC North title under coach Ben Johnson.
Cleveland finds itself in a similar situation. With Bitonio contemplating his future and other key players like Wyatt Teller, Jack Conklin, and Ethan Pocic potentially moving on, Berry is set to make strategic moves in Todd Monken’s inaugural year as head coach. Berry mentioned that trades, free agency, the draft, and internal development are all on the table to reshape the line.
Armed with two first-round picks in the 2025 draft, the Browns have options. They’ll need to be savvy with the salary cap as they revamp their offensive roster.
While they don’t yet have a player like Darnell Wright, that could change by April. Cleveland holds the 6th, 24th, and 39th overall picks, positioning them to snag top tackle prospects such as Miami’s Francis Mauigoa or Utah’s Spencer Fano.
The left tackle position is likely to be addressed in free agency. The Browns could make a splash with someone like Rasheed Walker or opt for a more budget-friendly option like Chicago’s Braxton Jones or New England’s Vederian Lowe. Securing a veteran here would allow Dawand Jones to serve as a swing tackle, especially after his injury last season.
For the guard positions, a mix of draft picks and trades could be the strategy. Ideally, Bitonio returns for another year, but adding a young, developmental player is crucial. If Bitonio retires, Jenkins could step up alongside a new veteran acquisition.
At center, the Browns might target a seasoned, reliable player like Buffalo’s Connor McGovern, who anchored the league’s top rushing attack in 2025.
While it might seem bold to replace four or five linemen, it’s not uncommon in the NFL. The Bears’ recent success provides a blueprint for the Browns. Berry’s comments suggest that Cleveland is ready to embrace a similar path in 2026, aiming for a powerful offensive resurgence.