Elgton Jenkins. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Browns taking $20 million risk on Elgton Jenkins

By Andrew Kulha | Last updated Mar 10, 2026 10:01 PM ET

Elgton Jenkins was not on the free-agent market long after being released by the Green Bay Packers.

A day after being released and saving the Packers nearly $20 million in cap space, Jenkins has agreed to a deal with the Cleveland Browns. According to reports, it's a two-year deal worth $24 million dollars, with $20 million guaranteed.

On the surface, this is a big move for the Browns. Jenkins is a former second-round pick of the Packers, and he was a two-time Pro Bowl guard for them over the past seven seasons.

Jenkins is also versatile, which is a trait that a rebuilding franchise would undoubtedly covet. Jenkins, checking in at 6-foot-5, 311 pounds, has played center, guard and tackle during his NFL career.

Browns signing C Elgton Jenkins to a two-year, $24 million deal with $20M guaranteed. (via @Rapsheet, @TomPelissero, @CameronWolfe) pic.twitter.com/CulgdzSM3g
— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2026

That's the good news for Browns fans looking for hope here at the start of the Todd Monken era.

Signing Elgton Jenkins a $20 million risk for Cleveland Browns

The bad news is that Jenkins also comes with $20 million worth of risk as a free agent.

He's coming off a season-ending lower-leg fracture and ankle injury in his left leg that he suffered in Week 10 of the 2025 season against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Packers were also undeniably better without Jenkins at center. He was replaced by Sean Rhyan, who slid over from guard to center. Rhyan played well enough to earn a three-year extension from the Packers, while they ultimately felt that Jenkins was worth more in salary-cap room than he was as a veteran offensive lineman.

Perhaps it was just his move to center that led to the lesser level of play. Perhaps Jenkins, already 30 years old, is on the back nine of his career, though.

He'd be a value on this contract if he can return to Pro Bowl form. If he busts, though, he'll be a $20 million waste.

That's the risk/reward game of free agency, though, especially for a team like the Browns.

Andrew Kulha

Andrew Kulha is probably the only sports writer you know who also doubles as a mortician. Spooky! @KulhaSports

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