The Cleveland Browns made two notable roster adjustments on Thursday, signing kicker Andre Szmyt while releasing veteran defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo. These moves come as the team prepares for the upcoming training camp, marking an uncommon burst of activity during what is usually a quiet period for NFL teams.
Details on Ogbo Okoronkwo’s Release and Performance
Okoronkwo, who joined the Browns two years ago on a three-year, $19 million contract, was originally brought in to bolster Cleveland’s defensive line alongside All-Pro Myles Garrett. However, after the Browns acquired Za’Darius Smith shortly afterward, Okoronkwo’s role diminished. Over 30 games with Cleveland, he recorded 54 tackles and 7.5 sacks, with his sack total declining from 4.5 in his first season to 3.0 in his second.
His playing time also dropped from 53% of defensive snaps in 2023 to 45% in 2024. Okoronkwo was set to earn $6 million in 2025, including a $3.225 million payment scheduled just before the season started, a financial commitment the Browns seem unwilling to maintain as they approach the new season.
#Browns have signed K Andre Szmyt (pronounced Schmidt) and released veteran DE Ogbo Okoronkwo, per the team. Okoronkwo signed a three-year, $19M free agency with the Browns two offseasons ago.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN)
Before joining Cleveland, Okoronkwo was part of the Los Angeles Rams team that won the Super Bowl in 2021 and posted a career-high five sacks with the Houston Texans in 2022. Across his NFL career, he has played in 80 games, amassing 17 sacks, 31 tackles for loss, and forcing four fumbles.
Andre Szmyt Returns to Browns to Compete for Kicking Duties
Andre Szmyt, who had a stint on the Browns’ practice squad last year, has been brought back to vie for the kicker position. Szmyt initially joined the team in late December, signed a Reserve/Futures contract in January, but was waived earlier this month to make room for wide receiver Jaelen Gill. His re-signing suggests the Browns want to challenge Dustin Hopkins, who struggled last season by making just 18 of 27 field goal attempts.
Szmyt is a decorated kicker, having won the Lou Groza Award at Syracuse in 2018. He also set a United Football League record in 2024 with the St. Louis Battlehawks by successfully converting 19 of 21 field goal attempts in a single season, showcasing his accuracy.
Impact of the Moves on the Browns’ Roster and Future Outlook
Releasing Ogbo Okoronkwo signals the Browns’ intention to adjust their defensive line roster and manage salary commitments ahead of the 2025 season, potentially making room to invest elsewhere. Bringing back Szmyt reflects the team’s desire to strengthen special teams, especially following a subpar performance from their current kicker. These changes could have a significant impact on the Browns’ competitiveness as they enter training camp and finalize their roster for the new NFL season.