The Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns are both expected to explore the offensive tackle market when free agency opens this offseason.
Chicago is relatively stable at the starting tackle positions with Ozzy Trapilo and Darnell Wright. However, depth remains a concern. Swing tackles Theo Benedet and Braxton Jones are both set to become free agents, leaving the Bears with a potential need behind their starters.
Cleveland faces a more pressing situation. Both Cam Robinson and Jack Conklin are headed for free agency. Conklin, in particular, is considered unlikely to return due to ongoing injury issues that have limited his availability in recent seasons.
With both teams carrying questions at tackle, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has identified Green Bay Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker as a possible target. Knox projects Walker could command a four year deal worth around $85 million.
Walker allowed 5 sacks during the 2025 season, according to Pro Football Focus. That figure stands in contrast to the 12 sacks Dan Moore allowed in 2024 before signing a lucrative deal with the Tennessee Titans.
Walker is set to turn 26 in February and is viewed as one of the top long term options available at left tackle in free agency. Knox lists the Bears and Browns as potential suitors.
A former seventh round pick, Walker has exceeded expectations since earning a starting role in Green Bay. Still, his performance profile is mixed.
Across three seasons as a starter, Walker has allowed 14 sacks and 102 pressures. In 2025 alone, he gave up 5 sacks and 34 pressures. His pass blocking grades have reached 70 or higher three times, but his run blocking has consistently lagged behind. Walker has never posted a run blocking grade higher than 57.9.
Despite those numbers, recent market trends suggest solid but unspectacular tackles can still command major contracts. The Titans’ deal with Moore last offseason reinforced that reality.
Chicago is widely viewed as an unlikely landing spot. The Bears are expected to focus on adding a swing tackle rather than investing heavily in a new starter.
Cleveland presents a more realistic fit. The Browns have needs on both sides of the offensive line, and Walker would represent an upgrade over Robinson at left tackle.
Even as the Browns rebuild, investing in a starting left tackle makes sense given the likelihood of a young quarterback leading the offense in the coming years.
Cleveland’s cap situation is tight. The team is projected to be roughly $17 million over the cap in 2026. Still, teams often find ways to maneuver financially, especially when addressing premium positions.
As free agency approaches, Walker is expected to draw strong interest, with the Browns emerging as a logical contender for his services.
