Key Takeaways:
– Sam Kamara signed an exclusive rights free agent deal with the Cleveland Browns.
– Kamara mostly served as a practice squad player since he joined the Browns in 2022.
– The Browns waived guard Drew Forbes, due to a failed physical test.
– The Browns have also kept Pro Bowl player Za’Darius Smith, offering him a two-season deal.
– Myles Garrett has expressed his determination to bring a Super Bowl to Cleveland.
The Cleveland Browns are set to fortify their defensive line with the return of pass-rusher Sam Kamara. The sports world received this update on Monday, April 15, when the Browns officially announced Kamara’s comeback with an exclusive rights free agent deal. Kamara shared his excitement on Instagram, posting a picture from Cleveland with a caption reading, “Back in the LAND”.
Kamara’s History with the Browns
The Browns signed Kamara in 2022, where he served primarily as a practice squad player, taking part in a total of three games. Before joining the Browns, Kamara initially entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Chicago Bears in 2021. He ended his rookie season appearing in eight games with a record of 10 tackles, one tackle for loss, and one pass defensed. Kamara had a decent season last year with the Browns, with seven tackles and a tackle for loss to his credit. He’s also known for being a valuable asset in special teams.
Bolstering the Defensive End Line
The defensive end depth of the Browns replicated the previous year’s lineup. The most significant move of this offseason was the re-signing of ex-Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith. Smith’s return ensures that the Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett, has a formidable teammate to maintain the defense line’s performance.
The shared agreement between the Browns and Smith is a contract worth $23.5 million for the next two seasons. Smith can earn up to $25 million with incentives included. In the previous season, Smith marked 27 tackles and 5.5 sacks in the 16 games he started. He was second on the team only to Garrett.
Changes in the Coaching Department
Apart from Ogbo Okoronkwo and Alex Weight, who will also be back with the Browns, significant changes have been made in the coaching department. This offseason, the Browns welcomed Jacques Cesaire to head the defensive line. Cesaire was holding a similar position with the Houston Texans prior to this. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed his delight over Cesaire’s hiring stating he brings energy and a proven track record as both a player and coach.
Myles Garrett Intent on Bringing Super Bowl to Cleveland
Garrett, leading the Browns’ defensive line, had another robust season, recording 42 tackles and 14 sacks. After winning his first DPOY honor, Garrett reiterated his drive to bring a Super Bowl to Cleveland. In his career of 100 games, Garrett has registered 88.5 sacks, 305 tackles, 94 tackles for loss, and 17 forced fumbles.
In other news, the Browns have waived guard Drew Forbes due to a failed physical test.
Looking ahead, the Cleveland Browns have an encouraging season in view with the augmentation of their defensive line and a burning desire for victory evidenced by their star player, Myles Garrett. Their fans eagerly await to see what this season unfolds.