New Headline: Youthful Move Sparks Bold Discussion on Tactics
Cleveland needs help at the guard position. But questions remain if this former first-round pick is the answer.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 21: Guard Zion Johnson #77 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on October 21, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 17-15. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry had some key decisions to make regarding the guard position entering free agency.
A troublesome calf limited guard Wyatt Teller to just 13 games in 2025, and the Browns are allowing the veteran to test free agency after seven years in Cleveland. While the Browns like guard Teven Jenkins enough to re-sign him, the fact that he has seen time at both guard spots and left tackle in five seasons in the league makes it feel more like he is slotted for a versatile backup role as opposed to starting. Finally, veteran Joel Bitonio is still deciding if he wants to play another season or retire and start working on his Pro Football Hall of Fame speech.
Enter Zion Johnson, who signed with the Browns after spending four years with the Los Angeles Chargers. A former first-round selection, Johnson has made 65 starts, mostly at left guard, but can play on either side of the line. With the first week of free agency drawing to a close, let’s take a look at some opinions on the decision to sign Johnson.
ESPN’s Seth Walder: C+ It’s no secret the Browns need offensive linemen. And on the first day of free agency, they landed Johnson, a 2022 first-round pick. Johnson grew into a strong run blocker over the course of his rookie contract, a big reason he commanded this contract.
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