As the NFL season kicks off on September 2, 2026, teams across the league have finalized their 53-man rosters, and a notable wave of former Cleveland Browns players have found themselves on the outside looking in. From veteran quarterbacks to promising young defenders, the list of ex-Browns who didn't survive final cuts this past week is a testament to the relentless churn of NFL rosters. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk has compiled the full rundown of these players, many of whom are now seeking opportunities on practice squads or waiting for another call.
A Who's Who of Former Browns Cut Loose
Among the most recognizable names is offensive tackle Jedrick Wills, who was attempting a comeback after a turbulent tenure in Cleveland. Wills, a former first-round pick, was released by the Browns earlier this year and had been hoping to latch on with another team. Unfortunately, he was among the final cuts, though he did land on a practice squad. Quarterbacks Nick Mullens, Bailey Zappe, and Josh Johnson also failed to make active rosters, with Mullens and Zappe securing practice squad spots. The trio represents a mix of veteran savvy and young potential, but none could crack the final 53.
Familiar Faces and Surprising Names
Running backs Pierre Strong and D'Ernest Johnson were also let go, while wide receivers Kaden Davis and KhaDarel Hodge found themselves without a roster spot. Tight ends Zaire Mitchell-Paden, Pharaoh Brown, and Mitchell Van Vooren all received their walking papers, as did offensive linemen Blake Hance and Roy Mbaeteka. On the defensive side, linemen Maurice Hurst, Ben Stille, Emmanuel Ogbah, and Ogbo Okoronkwo were cut, along with linebacker Mohamoud Diabate and cornerbacks Tavierre Thomas, Kahlef Hailassie, and A.J. Green. Safety D'Anthony Bell rounds out the list.
“It’s always tough to see familiar faces let go, but the NFL is a business,” said a league insider. “These players have the talent, but sometimes it’s about fit and timing.”
Practice Squad Moves and Second Chances
Several of these former Browns have already found new homes on practice squads, indicated by an asterisk in our list. Players like Wills, Mullens, Zappe, Davis, Hodge, Mitchell-Paden, Brown, Van Vooren, Hance, Mbaeteka, Stille, Ogbah, Okoronkwo, Thomas, Hailassie, and Green all landed on other teams' practice squads. Additionally, three Browns from this year’s training camp—center Kingsley Eguakun (Giants), wide receiver Cedric Tillman (Saints), and running back Davon Booth (Colts)—were signed directly to practice squads.
As the season progresses, these players will be looking for opportunities to prove themselves once again. For fans, it’s a reminder of just how difficult it is to stick in the NFL. As highlighted on Vulius, the revolving door of roster moves is part of what makes the league so compelling. Which of these former Browns do you think deserves another shot? Let us know in the comments.
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