In a move that directly impacts the Cleveland Browns’ defensive line, the team placed defensive end Alex Wright on injured reserve on Sunday. Wright suffered a season‑ending Achilles tendon injury during a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills on Thursday.
Wright, a third‑round pick from the 2022 draft, was carted off the field after going down in a one‑on‑one drill against Bills offensive tackle Spencer Brown. The injury ends his fifth season with the Browns, a season in which he posted a career‑high 5.5 sacks and was expected to help offset the loss of former star Myles Garrett, who was traded to the Los Angeles Rams.
Coach’s reaction
Head coach Todd Monken expressed disappointment, saying, “We’re disappointed for Alex. I would say in some ways I feel like I’ve grown close to Alex over the few months we’ve been together. I think he was all‑in and really starting to lead in his own way, and he certainly brings a certain style of toughness to our defense that we’ll miss.”
New signing to fill the void
To address the roster gap, the Browns signed veteran defensive end Derek Barnett. Barnett, a ten‑year NFL veteran, spent six seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and the past three seasons with the Houston Texans, where he recorded 12.5 sacks. The team expects Barnett’s experience to bolster the defensive front as the season progresses.
Depth chart adjustments
In addition to Barnett’s addition, Cleveland will look to younger players Isaiah McGuire and Mike Hall Jr. to start opposite defensive tackle Jared Verse. Both McGuire and Hall Jr. have shown promise in training camp and could see increased playing time as the Browns navigate the remainder of the season without Wright.
Impact on the Browns’ defense
The loss of Wright removes a key pass‑rusher who contributed significantly to the Browns’ sack totals last year. While the team’s defense has remained competitive, the front seven will need to adjust schemes and rely on the depth players and Barnett’s veteran presence to maintain pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Fans and local media will be watching closely to see how the Browns adapt their defensive strategy and whether the new additions can help the team stay competitive in the AFC North race.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
