The Cleveland Browns came into the offseason with a major need along the offensive line. They've completely overhauled that group with four additions, leaving only the left tackle spot open.
Zion Johnson, Teven Jenkins, and Tytus Howard were all solid pickups this offseason. But, the one that stands out as their best move was the $24 million contract for Elgton Jenkins, the former Green Bay Packers center.
As Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport writes, this $24 million addition was one of the best steals of free agency, as the $12 million per-year gamble is well worth it for a Pro Bowler like Jenkins.
Browns $24M Elgton Jenkins signing is 'steal' per NFL writer
"But occasionally, the Browns get one right - and that was the case when the team signed veteran offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins to a two-year, $24 million contract," Davenport writes. "... But Pro Bowl-caliber play for $12 million a season is well worth the gamble."
The reason why this signing by the browns is more of a gamble than some other free agent offensive line additions is that Jenkins has struggled with health problems. But Jenkins is well worth such a gamble.
When he's healthy and on the field, he's a Pro Bowl-caliber offensive lineman. With versatility to play both at center and at offensive guard, Jenkins is the perfect pickup for this browns team.
More: Browns agree to deals with Elgton Jenkins and Teven Jenkins
He's most likely going to be the starting center, which should be a huge boon for Shedeur Sanders, who dealt with heavy pressure a lot in 2025.
Even if Sanders doesn't end up being the starter, whoever it is will benefit from having a Pro Bowler at center who's often played at a high level in his career.
He's 30 years old, and while he played in just nine games last season for the Packers, Jenkins ' ability is well worth the risk of $24 million over two seasons.
This is a steal of a signing, not just in the opinion of Davenport, but also looking at what the Browns need, and how much this Pro Bowler cost them to acquire.
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