Cleveland Browns DE Calls It Quits Right Before Training Camp Opens

The Cleveland Browns have announced the retirement of defensive end Elerson G. Smith just days before training camp was set to begin.

Smith, 27, appeared in two games with the Browns during the 2024 season, recording two tackles. He was first signed to the Browns’ practice squad in September 2024 before he was elevated to the active roster in Week 11 and 12.

The Browns announced the move on Wednesday and Smith released a statement on social media.

“What this game has given to me cannot be measured. So many of the best relationships in my life are connected to this sport. It allowed me to be a part of so many great teams and organizations,” Smith said. “It’s put me in rooms with some of the most dedicated individuals I’ve ever met. It gave me space to push the limits of what I thought I was capable of. Though I never reached all of my goals, I am happy walking away from the game. The chase of greatness was intoxicating. It will be truly missed.”

The post drew some responses from his teammates, including wide receiver Michael Woods.

“Much love Brother!! We’ll miss you this year! Best of luck in your endeavors,” Woods said.

Running back Pierre Strong Jr. also chimed in.

“Hell of a career bro, blessed to be able to play against you in college & to play with you in the league,” Strong wrote.

Browns Seeking Stability Opposite of Myles Garrett

Even with Smith stepping away, the Browns have some solid depth on the defensive line. However, the team is looking for a consistent threat to emerge opposite of All-Pro Myles Garrett.

The Browns have tried various options in recent seasons, including Jadeveon Clowney and Za’Darius Smith. But this season, Alex Wright or Isaiah McGuire appear primed to compete for the role.

McGuire had 2.5 sacks last season, playing on 46% of the defensive snaps. Wright has shown promise but missed most of last season with a pectoral injury.

“He’s just a tough physical defensive end that knows how to rush the passer with physicality, and I just like how he sets the edge,” Browns defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire said of Wright. “He has some position flex where he can play inside and give us a good rush, play outside and give us a good rush. And the guy’s just a hard worker, just another hungry, fast, physical guy that we need on this defensive line.”

Cleveland also brought in former first-round pick Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. He logged 15 sacks over 45 starts with the Buccaneers.

Myles Garrett Under Pressure to Step Up — Again

Garrett is back to lead the Browns’ defense after a tumultuous offseason that nearly ended his tenure in Cleveland. The All-Pro pass rusher demanded a trade earlier this year, expressing a desire to join a contender.

But after hashing things out with the organization, Garrett recommitted to the Browns, signing a four-year, $160 million extension that made him the highest-paid defender in the league.

Garrett has already proven himself to be one of the NFL’s most dominant forces on defense. Still, the former No. 1 overall pick believes something even bigger is on the horizon this season.

“I look forward to having my best season for sure, and I think it’s trending that way. Been really good, and I think everything’s pointed in that direction,” Garrett said during minicamp. “And I like where we are as a defensive unit. It’s really firing, really rolling, and I think it’s really clicking as far as the scheme and the plays, especially early on. That’s big.”