Cleveland Browns Sign Veteran Steelers Safety Damontae Kazee

The Cleveland Browns have signed safety Damontae Kazee to a one-year deal, effectively replacing Juan Thornhill, who moved to the Pittsburgh Steelers in a notable AFC North safety swap. Kazee, 31, is entering his ninth NFL season and has played for four teams, including three years with the Steelers, where he contributed versatility by playing multiple positions in the secondary and special teams. Despite some injuries earlier in his career, Kazee has remained healthy over the past two seasons and brings a well-rounded game with 17 career interceptions and strong tackling ability. The Browns, who have a clear need at safety following last season's defensive decline, now have a group including Kazee, Grant Delpit, Ronnie Hickman, and several younger players. The move highlights both teams' efforts to address their secondary needs, with the Steelers upgrading at safety by acquiring Thornhill, while the Browns add Kazee's experience and versatility to their defensive backfield. Kazee's signing comes late in free agency but is viewed as a quality addition that could help stabilize Cleveland's defense.