When discussing the Cleveland Browns' offseason priorities, most folks zero in on their quest for a quarterback. But let's not overlook another pressing issue: the offensive line.
As the new league year kicks off on March 11, all of the Browns' starting linemen from the end of the 2025 season could hit free agency. That's a potential crisis for a team that already struggled in the trenches last year.
The Browns' line didn't exactly shine, leaving their quarterbacks under constant pressure and their run game stalling. Head coach Todd Monken can only do so much with a line that's not holding up its end of the bargain. Enter NFL draft analyst Chad Forbes, who's crafted a bold strategy to revamp this critical unit.
Forbes suggests that Browns GM Andrew Berry should tap into his connections, particularly with the Philadelphia Eagles, to jumpstart this rebuild. Here's how Forbes envisions the Browns reshaping their line:
First on the list is signing Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker. While he might command a hefty price tag, the Browns desperately need solid blindside protection. Next up, Forbes recommends targeting 49ers guard Spencer Burford and Saints center Luke Fortner in free agency to shore up the interior.
The plan gets even more intriguing with a proposed trade. Forbes suggests Berry leverage his relationship with Eagles GM Howie Roseman to acquire guard Tyler Steen. The idea is that offering Dawand Jones and a late-round pick could be enough to make this deal happen, especially since the Eagles might pursue Mekhi Becton if he becomes available.
Finally, Forbes envisions the Browns using the sixth overall pick to draft Francis Mauigoa or Georgia's Monroe Freeling. This move would round out the line with four seasoned veterans and a promising rookie at right tackle.
The Browns have two first-round picks this April, and either Mauigoa or Freeling could fit the bill. Freeling is particularly interesting given Monken's connections to Georgia, and he might still be on the board early in the second round, where the Browns hold the 39th overall pick.
While this is just a proposed blueprint, it highlights a clear path forward. The Browns need a comprehensive overhaul of their offensive line, and addressing this should be their top priority this offseason-potentially even more so than finding a new quarterback or wide receiver.