BROWNS BOLSTER PASS RUSH: Cleveland Signs Free Agent Julian Okwara to One-Year Deal
CLEVELAND, OHIO — The Cleveland Browns have added firepower to their defensive front, announcing the signing of free agent linebacker and edge rusher Julian Okwara to a one-year contract. The deal, confirmed Monday by team officials, is expected to bolster Cleveland’s pass rush rotation ahead of a critical 2025 NFL season.
Okwara, 26, was originally drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame. Known for his athleticism, speed, and ability to get off the edge, Okwara has shown flashes of disruptive talent when healthy. Over his four seasons in Detroit, he recorded a total of 9 sacks, 54 tackles, and 2 forced fumbles across 38 games.
Injuries hampered his consistency in Detroit, but Browns General Manager Andrew Berry sees untapped potential in the 6-foot-4, 250-pound defender.
“Julian brings the kind of versatility and explosive edge play we value in our defensive scheme,” Berry said in a statement. “We’re excited to give him a fresh opportunity here in Cleveland where he can compete, contribute, and continue to grow.”
A Complement to Myles Garrett
Okwara is expected to provide depth behind All-Pro Myles Garrett and newly re-signed defensive end Za’Darius Smith. The Browns’ defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is known for his aggressive, pressure-heavy approach, and Okwara’s skill set is seen as a strong fit for Schwartz’s system.
With the addition of Okwara, Cleveland continues to invest in its defensive line—a unit that finished among the top five in the NFL for quarterback pressures and sacks in the 2024 season.
Draft Focus Turns to Offense
While the defense continues to gain strength through free agency, the Browns are now expected to shift their attention to the offensive side of the ball in the upcoming NFL Draft. Team insiders suggest Cleveland will use early-round picks to reinforce their wide receiver corps and solidify the offensive line.
After a 2024 campaign that showed promise but ultimately fell short in the postseason, the Browns are aiming to provide quarterback Deshaun Watson with more weapons and stronger protection. Improving offensive efficiency remains a top priority for Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, especially in a division where every yard and every play can make the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit.
Analyst Reactions
NFL analysts have praised the Okwara signing as a low-risk, high-upside move that could pay dividends for a team already loaded with defensive talent.
“He’s still young, has great bend off the edge, and can be disruptive in bursts,” said NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah. “If he stays healthy, this could end up being one of the more underrated signings of the offseason.”
Final Thoughts
As free agency continues and the draft looms just weeks away, Cleveland’s front office appears committed to building a balanced, competitive roster capable of contending in the AFC. The addition of Julian Okwara marks another step in that direction—fortifying the defense while laying the groundwork for a strong offensive push in the weeks to come.