Browns Shake Up Defense, Sign New Linebacker

On March 22nd, the Cleveland Browns are shaking up their defense this 2026

offseason after a solid foundation last year. They lost linebacker Devon Bush

and defensive end Cameron Thomas to free agency right away. General manager

Andrew Berry quickly signed linebacker Quincy Williams to step in for Bush,

but more changes followed on that side of the ball. At the start of the league

year, the Browns let three restricted free agents hit the open market

without tenders. That included linebacker Mahamud Diabate,

tight end Blake Whiteheart, and defensive lineman Sam Kamara.

Diabate had been a key special teamer over three seasons,

snapping in over 45% of plays last year and 62% as a rookie in.

20-23. The athletic undrafted free agent graded well as a run defender

at 68.0 by pro football focus, often lining up next to rookie.

Stand out Carson Swessinger. Kamara has since rejoined the Browns,

while Whiteheart stays unsigned. Diabate landed with the Tennessee Titans,

opening spots for younger talent. These moves signal Cleveland's push

to refresh the roster ahead of the draft, balancing experience with fresh legs

with a long haul. Stay locked in with NFL news today.

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