Browns Reinforce Defense with Waiver Claims
CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Cleveland Browns have made significant changes to their defensive end depth chart by claiming two players off waivers: James Houston from the Detroit Lions and Cameron Thomas from the Kansas City Chiefs, while waiving Elerson Smith.
James Houston, a 6’1", 248-pound player, was originally drafted by the Lions in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. During his time in Detroit, he has played 17 games, making three starts and accumulating 15 tackles, nine sacks, and one forced fumble. However, in the current season, he has struggled, recording only four tackles and a sack over eight games. Lions coach Dan Campbell expressed hope that Houston would find success with a fresh start in Cleveland, following Detroit’s acquisition of linebacker Za’Darius Smith.
Cameron Thomas, a 6’4", 265-pound defensive end, was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the same 2022 draft. Over his first two seasons, he played 32 games and logged three sacks before being traded to Kansas City prior to the 2024 season, where he appeared in four games.
As the Browns prepare for their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos, they also face challenges on the injury front. Rookie receiver Cedric Tillman remains in the concussion protocol. Additionally, head coach Kevin Stefanski is uncertain about the availability of left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr., who is nursing a knee injury. The Browns are looking for solutions as they face a Broncos defense that leads the NFL in sacks.
Stefanski praised the effectiveness of Denver’s defense, noting their ability to pressure quarterbacks while maintaining strong coverage. The recent roster changes and injury management will be crucial for the Browns as they head into a competitive matchup.
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