In a significant setback for the
To fill the void left by Wright, the Browns have signed veteran pass rusher Derek Barnett to a one-year contract that could be worth up to $5.5 million, as reported by sources. Barnett, who is 30 years old, played for the Houston Texans last season, where he recorded five sacks. His experience will be crucial for the Browns, especially after the offseason trade that sent star defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, leaving a significant gap in the team's defensive strategy.
Wright's Impact and Future Prospects
Wright, 25, had shown promise in his previous season, achieving a career-high of 5.5 sacks. He had recently signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension in November 2025, indicating the team's confidence in his abilities. With Wright sidelined, the Browns are now looking to fourth-year player Isaiah McGuire to step up as a starter opposite two-time Pro Bowler Jared Verse. McGuire has accumulated 5.5 sacks over his three seasons in the league, including two sacks in the 2025 season.
Prior to Wright's injury, the Browns were already exploring options to bolster their edge-rushing capabilities. They had hosted visits from notable veterans Jadeveon Clowney and Za'Darius Smith, but both opted to sign with other teams, leaving Cleveland in a challenging position. In a recent preseason matchup against the Bills, third-year defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. filled in at defensive end and managed to record a sack, showcasing the depth of the team's defensive roster.
Barnett's Experience and Contributions
Derek Barnett brings a wealth of experience to the Browns, having recorded 12.5 sacks over three seasons with the Texans and contributing significantly to the Philadelphia Eagles during his earlier career. As a first-round pick in 2017, Barnett was part of the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team in his rookie year, and his ability to create turnovers, including two touchdowns on fumble recoveries in 2024, will be an asset for Cleveland as they navigate the challenges ahead.
