The Cleveland Browns are a work in progress, but they're trending in the right direction. Clearly, they still desperately need a franchise quarterback, but replacing Deshaun Watson this season is unrealistic.
With the NFL trade deadline now just around the corner, they must focus on other positions.
GM Andrew Berry and head coach Todd Monken seem unsettled with the team's tight end corps. They selected two tight ends on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, and they've had a revolving door of veterans in and out of the building since Monken took over.
That's why, now that it's crystal clear that they could use some help in the trenches, they should make the most of the Los Angeles Chargers' 0-7 start to the season and inquire about Charlie Kolar.
He's a Monken guy — and Kolar might be just what this struggling Browns offense needs.
Charlie Kolar could help unlock the Browns' run game without changing Todd Monken's offense
The Chargers should be looking to sell at the deadline this year, and the Browns should take advantage.
Kolar signed a three-year, $24 million deal, so he might not be as movable as other guys, but the Browns have enough financial flexibility to absorb his contract.
Kolar might not be the most explosive playmaker with the ball in his hands, but he's one of the most physical blocking tight ends in the game. His ability to move people in the running game is second to none at his position, hence the sizable payday in free agency for a player who's not known for his offensive prowess.
After spending years under Monken's guidance in Baltimore, Kolar would be the ultimate plug-and-play veteran for this offense. The Browns have spent most of their time in 11 personnel out of necessity, but Monken would certainly welcome an additional blocker in most sets.
The Browns run most of their plays out of the shotgun, which obviously takes a toll on the running game. With Kolar in the lineup, they would have a better chance at creating running lanes for Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson.
Harold Fannin Jr. is an elite tight end and a superstar in the making, not to mention a willing blocker. But the Browns need him to be the yards-after-the-catch machine that he is; limiting his routes due to added blocking responsibilities would be a disservice.
Rookie Carsen Ryan will likely get more chances now that he's back on the active roster, and the Browns will have to settle for Blake Whiteheart's uninspiring play unless they make an external addition.
Kolar is perfect for the wide-zone run scheme Monken wants to run, and he might be available at a reasonable price.
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