HBCU Standouts Tytus Howard and Shedeur Sanders Reunite on the Cleveland Browns Offense
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Posted By: Will Moss on March 03, 2026 In a move that has the HBCU community buzzing, the Cleveland Browns have acquired offensive lineman Tytus Howard from the Houston Texans. This trade not only strengthens the Browns' offensive line, but it also reunites Howard, a former star at Alabama State University, with quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who is vying for the starting job after a promising rookie season. Tytus Howard, a first-round draft pick in 2019, has established himself as a versatile and dependable offensive lineman in the NFL. During his time with the Texans, he started games at right tackle, right guard, and left guard, showcasing his ability to excel at multiple positions. According to Next Gen Stats, Howard allowed just a 4.8% pressure rate and a 1.1% quick pressure rate in 2025, both career bests. The addition of Howard is particularly significant for the HBCU community, as he joins forces with Shedeur Sanders, the former Jackson State University standout, on the Browns' roster. Sanders, who took over as the team's starting quarterback in Week 11 last season, is expected to enter training camp in a heated competition with Deshaun Watson, who is returning from an Achilles injury. "The possibility of an HBCU quarterback being protected by an HBCU offensive lineman is a powerful example of the continued growth and visibility of HBCU talent at premium NFL positions." Sanders' performance during his rookie campaign was uneven, but he showed flashes of growth, particularly in a narrow 31-29 loss to the Titans in Week 14, where he threw for 364 yards and three touchdowns. With the addition of Howard, Sanders could have an experienced and talented lineman protecting him, potentially elevating the young quarterback's game and providing a boost to the Browns' offense. Key Takeaway: The trade for Tytus Howard represents a significant HBCU connection on the Cleveland Browns' roster, potentially pairing an HBCU quarterback (Shedeur Sanders) with an HBCU offensive lineman. This reunion of talented players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities is a testament to the continued growth and visibility of HBCU talent at the highest level of professional football.
For the HBCU community, this move represents a source of pride and excitement. The possibility of an HBCU quarterback being protected by an HBCU offensive lineman is a powerful example of the continued growth and visibility of HBCU talent at premium NFL positions. As both Sanders and Howard look to make their mark on the league, the HBCU community will be cheering them on, eager to see the impact they can have on the Browns' offense and the NFL as a whole. Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
