Derek Barnett joins the Cleveland Browns after defensive line injury
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 10:06 AM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Veteran defensive end Derek Barnett signed with the Cleveland Browns on August 23 following a lengthy stint in free agency. The move comes after starting defensive end Alex Wright sustained a season-ending Achilles injury during a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills on August 20. Barnett, a 10-year veteran, enters a familiar defensive scheme that shares elements with systems he played in previously with the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans. Cleveland pursued several other pass rushers throughout the offseason before finalizing the deal with the 30-year-old. Barnett is currently focusing on football conditioning and learning the team's terminology as the roster prepares for the regular-season opener. The Browns are scheduled to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13 to begin their campaign.
- •Derek Barnett signed with the Cleveland Browns on August 23.
- •The Browns pursued the signing after Alex Wright suffered a torn Achilles on August 20.
- •Barnett has recorded 34 career sacks across 10 NFL seasons.
- •Cleveland opens its regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13.
- •Barnett is adjusting to new defensive terminology under defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg.
- 10:06 AMYahoo Sports — Derek Barnett's 'patience' pays off in opportunity with Browns
"Veteran Derek Barnett was looking for the right opportunity for him to sign. The defensive end feels like he found it with the Browns.
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