The first wave of NFL free agency is in the books, and GM Andrew Berry has been busy rebuilding the Cleveland Browns from the trenches out. With the offensive line seeing the majority of the attention, Jimmy Haslam’s check book has been busy.

Here are my rapid-fire grades of the newest Browns:

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The New Additions

At 3 years and $49.5-million, the Browns paid a premium for a former first-rounder. He’s a mauler in the run game, which is perfect for Quinshon Judkins, but his pass protection needs to stay consistent to justify the $32.4-million guaranteed.

Snagging a two-time Pro Bowler for $12-million a year is a steal—if he stays healthy. His versatility to play all five spots is the ultimate insurance policy for a unit that was decimated by injuries last season. He’s better at left guard than center (where he played last season).

Acquired for just a 5th-round pick, Howard is a massive upgrade at right tackle over the rarely available Jack Conklin. The 3-year, $63-million extension is hefty, but finding a plug-and-play starter for mid-round draft capital is great business.

Quincy Williams (LB): B- 

Replacing Devin Bush with an All-Pro caliber speedster is a win. He’s a tackling machine (100+ tackles four years straight), but is coming off of his worst statistical year since 2020. Turning 30, he’s reunited with former Jets linebackers coach, now DC, Mike Rutenberg who could get him back to playing at a high level next to Carson Schwesinger.

These are purely depth moves. Davis provides a body for the rotation, and Stoll is a blocking specialist, but neither moves the needle for a team needing high-end playmakers.

Final Offseason Grade: C+

The Verdict: 

While the Browns successfully rebuilt most of the offensive line, left tackle remains a giant question mark. The future of Joel Bitonio is still unknown, and none of the new signings look to be an upgrade on the departed Wyatt Teller.

Not acquiring a wide receiver also tips their hand in April’s NFL Draft as LT and a stud wideout are still Cleveland’s too most pressing needs. Overall, a slightly above average job by Berry through the opening phase of the new league year.

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