The Cleveland Browns lead the NFL with 38 sacks allowed through nine games, a statistic that has become impossible to ignore as their offensive line struggles to protect the quarterback. Their recent 5-4 record masks ongoing issues in the trenches, where repeated pressure has put both Deshaun Watson and his backup Shedeur Sanders under intense strain. After a humiliating Week 8 loss to Pittsburgh, in which Watson was sacked eight times before entering concussion protocol, general manager Andrew Berry is reportedly targeting Los Angeles Chargers tight end Charlie Kolar to provide much-needed blocking support before the 2026 trade deadline.
Todd Monken’s offense has shown resilience, relying on late-game execution and clutch kicking from Andre Szmyt to escape tight contests. But the interior problems have become a growing concern. Against New Orleans in Week 9, Sanders was sacked five times, and the Browns managed only 95 rushing yards on 34 attempts, making it difficult to establish a balanced attack. The inability to protect the quarterback has directly impacted Cleveland’s chances to secure a playoff spot.
Finding a quality offensive tackle on the trade market this late in the season is unlikely. Established starters rarely become available, and those who do typically require high draft compensation. Instead, Berry is considering a more practical option: adding a proven inline blocking tight end to reinforce the offensive front. Charlie Kolar fits this profile. Signed by the Chargers to a three-year, $24.3 million contract earlier this year, Kolar began his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, working under Monken’s offensive system. This familiarity adds to his appeal as a potential trade target.
At 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, Kolar is one of the league’s more accomplished blocking tight ends. While not known primarily as a receiving threat, he has recorded 13 receptions for 129 yards in six appearances this season with Los Angeles. His main value to Cleveland would come from his ability to provide chip blocks and seal edges, helping to reduce the pressure on the quarterback and open running lanes for the Browns’ backfield, including Quinshon Judkins.
Deploying Kolar alongside Harold Fannin Jr. could reshape Cleveland’s offensive strategy. Fannin has demonstrated explosive receiving ability, and Kolar’s presence would allow Monken to use Fannin more freely as a seam threat rather than assigning him blocking duties. This two-tight-end approach could improve both the passing and running games, offering more versatility and protection.
Berry faces challenges in making the deal happen. Kolar’s multiyear contract makes him a more expensive acquisition than a typical rental player, requiring a compelling offer to convince the Chargers to part with him. Cleveland must avoid overpaying for the addition while balancing the cost of doing nothing, which could jeopardize their playoff hopes.
The Browns’ offensive struggles have continued to attract attention. After their overtime loss to New Orleans, questions remain about their ability to maintain offensive effectiveness. With the trade deadline approaching, signing Kolar would provide a familiar piece for Monken’s system and a practical way to shore up an offense that has relied heavily on late-game heroics to stay competitive. Berry’s next move will be closely watched as Cleveland fights to preserve its postseason ambitions.
According to Yahoo Sports.
