Derek Barnett signs as Alex Wright lands on injured reserve

ESPN reports a one-year deal worth up to $5.5 million.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 241 min read

We've signed DE Derek Barnett and placed DE Alex Wright on injured reserve Via @Browns on X

What happened: ESPN reported that Alex Wright ruptured his Achilles during Thursday's joint practice, ending his 2026 season. Barnett enters his 10th NFL season.

Why it matters: Barnett provides immediate experience at a position that lost a projected starter during the preseason. Wright signed a three-year, $33 million extension last November, extending the roster impact beyond 2026.

By the numbers: Barnett has 34 sacks, 216 tackles, five forced fumbles and four recoveries in 112 career games. Wright has played 51 games since 2022 and posted a 5 sacks last season.

What to watch: Barnett's role will come into focus as coaches set the Week 1 edge rotation.

Sources

@Browns 2026-08-24T04:47:06.179325+00:00

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