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.
Berea, OH – After a two and a half season stint with the Houston Texans, veteran defensive end Derek Barnett decided to enter free agency in March. Despite the offseason and training camp not yielding a new contract, Barnett remained patient and eventually signed with the Cleveland Browns on August 23rd. The Browns made this decision due to injuries suffered by Alex Wright, who tore his Achilles tendon in a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills, prompting the team to seek a veteran defensive end to bolster their roster.
Other teams like the Los Angeles Rams and Jacksonville Jaguars also pursued Barnett, but he ultimately chose the Browns. Coach Todd Monken noted that Barnett's background in the same defensive scheme as the Browns means the transition will be relatively smooth. Barnett, who has 112 regular-season and 11 playoff games under his belt, including a Super Bowl victory, brings a wealth of experience and 34 career sacks to the team.
The Browns will now see how Barnett fits into their existing roster, consisting of Jared Verse, Mason Graham, and Maliek Collins, and aim to integrate him effectively before the season opener on September 13th in Jacksonville.
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