Cleveland Browns Release Edge Rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo

The Cleveland Browns have released defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo, who was in the final year of his three-year, $19 million contract. Okoronkwo, a former Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams and a notable 2022 season with the Houston Texans, recorded 23 tackles and three sacks in 2024 with the Browns, but primarily served as a rotational player behind stars like Myles Garrett. The release frees up $5.4 million in cap space, allowing the Browns to invest in younger pass rushers such as Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Mason Graham, and Maliek Collins. In a corresponding move, the Browns re-signed kicker Andre Szmyt, who will compete for the starting job in training camp. The Browns are also navigating competition among four healthy quarterbacks to determine their starter for the upcoming season. Okoronkwo’s departure opens opportunities for teams needing experienced situational pass rushers, with the Panthers and Falcons among those potentially interested.