The Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans agreed to a trade on Monday, sending right tackle Tytus Howard to the Browns in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. This deal brings an established starter to Cleveland and sets the stage for a significant overhaul of the Browns’ offensive line.
Trade Details and Howard’s Background
The 27-year-old tackle has been a staple of the Texans’ line since 2018, starting 63 games and earning a reputation as one of the league’s top right tackles. In Cleveland, Howard is expected to play a crucial role in protecting quarterback Deshaun Watson, who signed a massive contract extension last offseason.
Browns’ Needs and Future Plans
The Browns’ interest in Howard is no surprise, given the team’s struggles with injuries and inconsistency along the offensive line. Last season, Cleveland’s starting unit was ravaged by injuries, leading to a carousel of players at various positions. With the entire starting unit set to be free agents in 2024, the Browns are taking proactive steps to ensure continuity and stability.
Contract Extension and Salary Cap Impact
The Browns also signed Howard to a three-year, $63 million extension, which includes $43 million in guaranteed money. By acquiring Howard, the Browns are addressing a critical need and setting themselves up for long-term success. The team will also benefit from shedding the Texans’ $13.5 million cap hit, freeing up space for the Texans to address other needs.
Impact on Both Teams
The trade makes sense for both teams. The Browns get a proven starter who can anchor their line, while the Texans gain valuable draft capital to fuel their rebuild. However, there are risks involved, particularly for Cleveland, as Howard has a history of injuries, including a torn ACL in 2021.
Managing Workload and Future Outlook
The Browns will need to manage Howard’s workload carefully to maximize his impact. For the Texans, this trade signals a desire to build for the future and invest in young talent. It’s a strategic move for both teams, with the Browns committed to building a championship-caliber team and Howard a crucial piece of that puzzle.
