Former Browns offensive lineman Wyatt Teller.
Getty
Former Browns offensive lineman Wyatt Teller.
Wyatt Teller has a new home with the Houston Texans and his agent believes it’s a situation the Cleveland Browns will regret.
Teller signed a two-year deal with the Texans worth $16 million, with a maximum value of $23 million. He had spent his previous seven seasons with the Browns. He arrived in 2019 via a trade from the Buffalo Bills.
Teller made an impact as a mauling blocker up front and opposite of perennial Pro Bowler Joel Bitonio. He made three Pro Bowls and was twice named a second-team All-Pro.
Teller appeared in 13 games last season, but his role shifted down the stretch as he began splitting reps with Teven Jenkins. He also missed time with injury, appearing in just 13 games.
Wyatt Teller Wanted to Remain in Cleveland
Teller, 31, was a popular name at the trade deadline but the Browns hung on to him. He made it clear then that he’d like to remain in Cleveland for the rest of his career. After it became clear he was going to leave in free agency, Teller issued an emotional goodbye on social media.
“I wish things were different and this is hard to put into words. When Buffalo traded me to Cleveland seven years ago, I never could have imagined how much this city would mean to me,” Teller wrote in a note shared on social media. “Ultimately, the Browns took a chance on me that changed the trajectory of my life forever.
“I’ve made friendships and connections on and off the field that will last far beyond the game of football. Our family is so blessed and grateful for everyone in Northeast Ohio who has supported and loved us these past seven years. While we are excited and look forward to what the future holds, Cleveland will always have a special place in our hearts. As always… Go Browns!”
Teller’s agent, Andy Ross, took to social media after the signing with the Texans was official, giving his take on the situation.
“My POV — the Browns will wish they re-signed Wyatt at some point. But on to the Texans now,” Ross said.
Browns Rebuilding on Offensive Line
Teller is far from the only departure from the Browns’ offensive line. Center Ethan Pocic and tackles Jack Conklin and Cam Robinson are all free agents.
The team is also awaiting word on Bitonio, who is weighing retirement or a potential move to another team. His contract was voided at the start of the league year and he’s an unrestricted free agent. A return is still possible, but Bitonio is taking his time with the decision.
But the Browns have done some significant work to rebuild the unit. Cleveland traded for Texans tackle Tytus Howard and also added interior linemen Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins.
Cleveland also re-signed Teven Jenkins, who could factor into a starting role after seeing an increased workload last season. The Browns hold two first-round picks — No. 6 and 24 — which could bring the addition of another core piece of the offensive line, likely at left tackle.