Browns Sign Zion Johnson to Boost Offensive Line

0:00On March 10, the Cleveland Browns just bolstered their offensive line by signing guard Zion Johnson from the Los Angeles Chargers to a three-year. Deal worth $49.5 million, including $32.4 million guaranteed. At 6 feet 3 inches and 316 pounds, the 26-year-old was a first-round pick, 17th overall, out of Boston College. Back in 2022, Johnson grew up in a small town outside Washington, D.C., where he first focused on golf before growth spurts led him to football in high school. With no major scholarship offers, he walked on at Davidson College, earned all conference honors, then transferred to Boston College. There, he quickly became a starter, captain, and first team All-American. In the NFL, he jumped right in, earning all rookie honors after starting all 17 games as a right guard in his debut season. He shifted to left guard later, and as suited up for 66 games with 65 starts overall, showing durability across levels.

1:02Scouts praise his power in tight spaces, run-bawking strength, and smarts, though his athleticism has limits against speedy rushers. His latest pro football focus grade sat at 57, with a few penalties and sacks allowed, but he remains versatile for inside work. This move gives Brown's general manager, Andrew Berry, a proven piece to build around, addressing a key need as they eye more line help in free agency, and the upcoming draft.