Quincy Williams Joins the Cleveland Browns
On March 9, 2026, Quincy Williams signed a two-year deal with the Cleveland Browns, a move that has generated considerable interest in the NFL community. The contract is valued at up to $17 million, reflecting Williams’ status as a key player following his successful tenure with the New York Jets.
Williams, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2023, has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the field. Over the past four seasons, he logged over 100 tackles each year, showcasing his reliability and skill as a linebacker. In 2025 alone, he recorded 83 tackles and achieved a career-high of 3.5 sacks, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable defensive player.
Before joining the Browns, Williams played a total of 96 games in the NFL, starting in 81 of them. His career statistics include 554 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and 58 tackles for loss, underscoring his impact on defense. Originally drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Williams has evolved into a vital asset for any team.
Williams’ signing with the Browns comes in the wake of Devin Bush’s departure, who signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Chicago Bears. Williams is expected to take over the starting linebacker position vacated by Bush, a transition that the Browns hope will maintain the strength of their defensive lineup.
Mike Rutenberg, the Browns’ coach, expressed enthusiasm about Williams joining the team, stating, “Quincy and I connected from the heart, from the start. It went heart to football.” This connection is anticipated to facilitate Williams’ integration into the Browns’ defensive scheme.
In addition to his impressive statistics, Williams was voted the Jets’ Most Valuable Player in 2022, highlighting his leadership and performance on the field. His experience and skills will be crucial as the Browns aim to bolster their defense for the upcoming season.
As the Browns prepare for the next NFL season, Williams’ addition is seen as a strategic move to enhance their defensive capabilities. The team had hoped to retain as much of their stellar defense as possible, and Williams’ signing aligns with that goal.
Currently, the Browns are in the process of finalizing their roster and preparing for training camp, where Williams will have the opportunity to showcase his abilities and solidify his role within the team.
Overall, Quincy Williams’ signing with the Cleveland Browns marks a significant step in his career and presents an exciting development for the team as they look to improve their performance in the league.