Browns lose DE Wright (Achilles) for season, add DE Barnett
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Cleveland Browns defensive end Alex Wright suffered a ruptured Achilles during a practice drill with the Buffalo Bills, leading to his placement on season-ending injured reserve.
- To bolster their pass rush, the Browns signed veteran Derek Barnett to a one-year contract worth up to $5.5 million.
- Wright, who had a career-high 5.5 sacks last season and recently signed a three-year, $33 million extension, was expected to play a key role opposite Pro Bowler Jared Verse following Myles Garrett's trade.
- Isaiah McGuire is anticipated to start in Wright's place, while Barnett brings experience with 12.5 sacks over three seasons with the Houston Texans and a Super Bowl win with the Philadelphia Eagles.
- The Browns had previously pursued other veteran edge rushers, including Jadeveon Clowney and Za'Darius Smith, but both signed elsewhere.
