Tytus Howard has spent his entire NFL career with the Houston Texans since being drafted in the first round in 2019. His run with the franchise has officially come to an end after he was recently traded to the Cleveland Browns. Many around the league reacted to the deal that sends a solid offensive tackle away from a team that has struggled with blocking.
Tytus Howard Trade to Browns Results in Texans’ Plan Being Questioned Around the NFL
The Texans have severely struggled to block as a unit in recent years, with their offensive line finishing among the bottom ten teams in PFSN’s Impact Rankings in each of the past five seasons. Howard has been one of their few bright spots, but they sent him to the Browns in exchange for just a fifth-round pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
Sources: The #Texans and #Browns have agreed to terms on a trade to send starting RT Tytus Howard to Cleveland in exchange for a fifth-round pick.
Much-needed OL help. Plus, Howard gets a new 3-year, $63M extension in a deal done by @malkikawa and Ethan Lock of @FirstRoundMgmt. pic.twitter.com/3X2PprFIjN
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 2, 2026
Some around the NFL took issue with the return package for the Texans. They essentially gave him away at a cheap price, which has resulted in criticism.
“There are times when I have no idea what NFL teams are doing, or what their vision is, and this is one of them,” stated Garrett Greenlee.
Love this for the Browns. They need to fix their entire OL and this is a great start
For the Texans I simply ask why
There’s times where I have no idea what NFL teams are doing or what their vision is and this is one of them
A 5th round pick?! https://t.co/eVnkIk6LxN
— Football Analysis (@FBallAnalysisYT) March 2, 2026
Others also questioned if this was really the most that they could get for Howard, who is still just 29 years old. It has been acknowledged that general manager Nick Caserio is looking to rebuild the offensive line, but he may not have maximized his return.
“Caserio really wanted a reset on the line and to get cheaper, but hard to believe we couldn’t get a higher pick for a plus starter,” added Jordan Pun.
1. WHAT
2. Keep good OL challenge: impossible
3. Caserio really wanted a reset on the line and to get cheaper. Hard to believe we couldn’t get a higher pick for a plus-starter… https://t.co/JBmxPkwRcg
— Jordan Pun (@Texans_Thoughts) March 2, 2026
The deal has created speculation about what the Texans have in mind for replacing him, but the answer could potentially already be on their roster. They also have the option of focusing on new offensive linemen in the draft.
“Houston must really like Blake Fisher for right tackle and have some other plan for guard. There are a ton in this class,” speculated Brett Kollmann.
Houston must really like Blake Fisher for RT, and have some other plan for guard.
There’s a ton of round 2-3 OGs in this class, so they must be locked in on those guys. https://t.co/7Lt1zs6ZJA
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) March 2, 2026
Regardless of their plan, it’s still important to ensure return packages are maximized in any trade to create the best situation for a team’s future. This has left some in the NFL disapproving of this particular deal.
“This is a terrible trade,” exclaimed Big Sarge.
Well…It took a while but Nick is finally getting “The Patriots Way” he has always wanted…This is a terrible trade IMO #Sarge https://t.co/4JnrG1mxK4
— BIG SARGE MEDIA LLC (@BigSargeSportz) March 2, 2026
From the other perspective, many praised the Browns for acquiring Howard at the price that they paid for him. He has the potential to be an absolute steal when weighed against a late draft pick.
“Man allowed 0 sacks last season. Welcome to Cleveland, Tytus. You’re sorely needed,” explained Jack Gorman.
Man allowed 0 sacks last season. Welcome to Cleveland, Tytus. You’re sorely needed. https://t.co/o9SEJxJbax
— Jack Gorman – Sports (@JackGormanSport) March 2, 2026
The Browns still have major questions to answer about their quarterback position, but whoever they name the starter, they would benefit from better blockers around them. This played into some theories about what this trade means for Cleveland.
“Dillon Gabriel blindside protection,” said Steve Palazzolo.
Dillon Gabriel blindside protection https://t.co/Dk3bK3JOj9
— Steve Palazzolo (@StevePalazzolo_) March 2, 2026
The Browns made the change to Todd Monken as their new head coach, so it will be interesting to see which of his quarterback options he prefers. His pick will likely enjoy an upgraded offensive line with Howard now in the mix.
The Texans will now look to continue rebuilding their own offensive line and better protect C.J. Stroud. The quarterback’s postseason struggles led to Houston’s disastrous playoff exit, so the team may be adjusting its offensive approach.
