Nick Harris Returns to Cleveland: Browns Secure Center in Trade with Seahawks
In an intriguing NFL development, the Cleveland Browns have brought back a familiar face to bolster their offensive line. Nick Harris, who previously played for the Browns, is making his return to Cleveland following a trade with the Seattle Seahawks. The Browns addressed their depth concerns at the center position by sending a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Seahawks in exchange for Harris and a 2026 seventh-round pick.
Harris, originally a fifth-round selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, made a notable impression during his initial tenure with the Browns. Over the course of 40 regular-season games, Harris managed to secure four starts, showcasing his capabilities at a critical position. However, his promising trajectory was interrupted when he missed the entire 2022 regular season due to a knee injury sustained during the preseason. Making a comeback, Harris appeared in two games last season before signing with the Seahawks in March.
Addressing Depth Concerns
The Browns’ urgency in reacquiring Harris was fueled by recent injuries within their lineup. Luke Wypler, the team’s promising center, suffered an ankle injury during the preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers, prompting the Browns to seek immediate reinforcement. Harris, with his familiarity with the Browns’ system and proven ability, emerged as a suitable candidate to fill this void.
“It's always tough to see a player go down, especially someone as integral as Wypler,” an insider within the Browns organization noted. “But getting Nick back gives us much-needed stability and experience at the center position.”
The trade underscores the Browns' commitment to ensuring depth in critical areas as they gear up for the regular season. With Harris back in the fold, the team aims to maintain their offensive line's efficacy and protect their assets on the field.
A Strategic Move by Seattle
For the Seahawks, the decision to part ways with Harris aligns with their recent moves to restructure their offensive lineup. Seattle signed veteran Connor Williams, bringing in seasoned leadership and reliability. With Williams on board, the Seahawks now also have Olu Oluwatimi as a viable backup option, which afforded them the flexibility to trade Harris.
“Seattle’s focus was to ensure that we have a balanced and deep roster,” a source close to the Seahawks commented. “By signing Williams and having Oluwatimi ready to step up, trading Harris was a strategic decision to get additional draft capital.”
Harris’s Second Stint in Cleveland
Returning to Cleveland, Harris brings both familiarity and a fresh perspective. His previous stretch with the Browns had its highs and lows, marked notably by the untimely injury that sidelined him. Now healthy and ready to contribute, Harris will look to reestablish himself as a pivotal player for the Browns.
“There's always something special about returning to a team that drafted you,” Harris shared with reporters. “I'm grateful for the opportunity to come back and play for the Browns. It's a chance to pick up where I left off and contribute to the team's success.”
For the Browns, Harris’s return signifies more than just roster depth; it’s about bringing back a player who embodies resilience and potential. The team’s coaching staff anticipates that Harris’s familiarity with their schemes and his renewed drive will make a significant difference as they navigate the upcoming season.
As the preseason continues, both the Browns and the Seahawks will closely monitor the impact of this trade. While Cleveland shores up its center position, Seattle capitalizes on their new acquisitions to reinforce their roster. When the regular season kicks off, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how these moves pan out for both teams.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, moves like these underscore the importance of strategic planning and adaptability. For Nick Harris, it’s a homecoming filled with promise and potential. For the Browns, it’s a step towards fortifying their lineup and gearing up for a competitive season. And for football enthusiasts, it’s yet another storyline to follow as the season unfolds.