The Cleveland Browns aim to see drastic improvement from their number two EDGE rusher opposite Myles Garrett after trading Za’Darius Smith during the last trade deadline, their second-leading sacker at the position. The defense’s third-leading sacker at the position finished with three sacks, while the fourth one had 2.5. The Browns hope Isaiah McGuire will take the next step in Year 3, while former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Joe Tryon-Shoyinka helps them as part of the rotation.
Cleveland Browns veteran was on the chopping block
Due to his struggles, him falling out of the rotation, and his contract, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo faced an uncertain future in Cleveland. He enters the final year of his three-year, $19 million contract and is scheduled to earn a $2.235 million base salary, along with a $5.316 million cap hit in 2025. Okoronkwo had a rough 2024 season, losing the starting job later in the year and recording 23 tackles, five TFLs, six quarterback hits, three sacks, and one forced fumble in 16 games and five starts.
Cleveland Browns suddenly cut 19-sack pass rusher
According to Adam Schefter, the Browns have released Ogbo Okoronkwo. Since his release occurred after June 1, the $6.7 million in dead cap will be spread into the 2026 offseason. As a result, the front office frees up $3.366 million in cap space and incurs $1.95 million in dead cap in 2025 and $4.75 million in 2026.
Browns released DE Ogbo Okoronkwo.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 26, 2025
Here’s a look at the Cleveland Browns’ EDGE depth
- Myles Garrett
- Isaiah McGuire
- Joe Tryon-Shoyinka
- Alex Wright
- Julian Okwara
- Cameron Thomas
- Elerson Smith
- Adin Huntington
