A Couple of Jenkins: Browns sign Pro Bowl center Elgton Jenkins and keep versatile free agent

Andrew Berry isn’t wasting any time rebuilding the trenches. The Browns have reportedly reached a deal with 2x Pro Bowl offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins on a two-year, $24 million contract that includes $20 million guaranteed.

The move comes after a busy first couple days of the NFL’s “legal tampering” free agency period. Zac Jackson of The Athletic noted, Jenkins was officially cut by Green Bay with a failed physical designation following a fractured fibula in Week 10. The 30-year-old veteran has spent all seven of his NFL seasons with the Packers, displaying elite versatility across the line. Despite the injury, PFF ranked Jenkins as the No. 25 center in 2025, but his pass-blocking remained top-tier, ranking 7th at the position.

More: Browns free agency: Grading the Quincy Williams signing after losing star LB Devin Bush

Cleveland didn't stop there, also re-signing Teven Jenkins to bolster the interior. Originally acquired via free agency in 2025, the former Chicago Bear proved his worth in a rotation with right guard Wyatt Teller. Mary Kay Cabot highlighted his impact, noting that "Teven Jenkins was ranked No. 8 among NFL guards last season, according to Pro Football Focus."

With the legendary Joel Bitonio’s future still up in the air, Berry has aggressively addressed four spots—right tackle, center, and both guard positions—in just one week. The interior is looking solid looks with the pair of Jenkins plus the addition of Zion Johnson, with the hope that Bitonio comes back.

Left tackle remains the final piece of the puzzle. Whether Berry looks to the remaining free-agent market or targets a blindside protector in the upcoming draft, the 2026 Browns offensive line rebuild continues.

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