As expected, the Cleveland Browns have released veteran quarterback Brock Osweiler, who was touted to be a starter in the preseason but lost his chance due to his poor play. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network Insider and Mike Garafolo of NFL Network first reported the move, based on information from a source. The Browns did not use Osweiler in their last two preseason games as they tried to trade the quarterback with a $16 million guaranteed salary this season. However, they failed to find a trade partner that would take the quarterback and his huge salary, prompting the Browns to simply release him.
It was a surprise that Osweiler lasted this long with the Browns, who acquired him via trade with the Houston Texans in March together with a 2018 second-round pick. He was expected to be immediately released, but coaches decided to include him in the quarterback competition against rookie DeShone Kizer and last year’s starter Cody Kessler. Initially, the Browns were expected to name him starting quarterback but Kizer’s outstanding play in the preseason changed their mind. Kizer was recently named starting quarterback while Kessler will back him up, leaving no spot for Osweiler.
Bears released wideout Victor Cruz
Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the Chicago Bears released veteran wide receiver Victor Cruz, who failed to make his mark in the preseason.
Cruz signed a one-year deal worth $2 million and an additional $2 million in incentives with the Bears in the offseason, hoping to revive his career after he was released by the New York Giants. The 30-year-old Cruz was an undrafted free agent but emerged as a solid wide receiver when he joined the Giants in 2010. Between 2011 and 2012, he caught 168 passes for 2,628 yards and 19 touchdowns.
However, his career was marred by several injuries.
Seahawks acquire DL Sheldon Richardson from Jets
The Seattle Seahawks beefed up their defense by acquiring defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson from the New York Jets in exchange for receiver Jermaine Kearse and a 2018 second-round pick. Also, the teams also swapped seventh-round selections in the deal.
A 13th overall pick by the Jets in the 2013 NFL Draft, Richardson made an impact by winning Defensive Rookie of the Year. The following season, Richardson tallied eight sacks on his way to a stint in the 2014 Pro Bowl. However, he struggled in the past two seasons. The 26-year-old totaled just 1.5 sacks last season. He is set to make $8 million guaranteed entering the final year of his rookie contract. Richardson will team up with fellow defensive players Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril. Kearse, for his part, recently signed a three-year, $13.5 million contract with the Seahawks.
