CLEVELAND ― The Browns didn't get the news they hoped for with regards to defensive end Alex Wright's leg injury.
The Browns are placing Wright on the injured reserve list with a season-ending ruptured Achilles, a source confirmed for the Beacon Journal. He sustained the injury during a one-on-one drill between himself and a Buffalo Bills offensive lineman during their Aug. 20 practice.
To fill Wright's void, they're signing former Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans defensive end Derek Barnett, a source confirmed. Barnett spent the last two-and-a-half seasons with the Texans.
It's another injury setback for both Wright and the Browns' defensive line. The former missed the final 13 games of the 2024 season with a torn triceps.
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The defensive line, meanwhile, has been riddled with injuries, specifically at defensive tackle. However, defensive end has been a spot the Browns have been actively trying to find veteran help at that spot even before they traded away Myles Garrett.
The team reportedly hoped to sign veteran Za'Darius Smith, but he spurned the team to reunite with former coach Kevin Stefanski with the Atlanta Falcons. An attempt to sign A.J. Epenesa was thwarted after he initially agreed to a contract due to an issue with his physical.
They also failed to sign Jadeveon Clowney earlier this month. Instead, he signed with the Houston Texans.
Alex Wright statsDrafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Browns, Wright is coming off arguably the best season of his career. In 2025 he had 37 tackles, 5.5 sacks and 12 tackles for a loss. He played in 14 games, starting in nine.
Alex Wright contractThe Browns and Wright agreed to a three-year contract extension in November. The $33 million contract extension includes $21 million guaranteed.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Chris Easterling can be reached at ceasterling@thebeaconjournal.com. Read more about the Browns at www.beaconjournal.com/sports/browns. Follow him on X at @ceasterlingABJ. Sign up for Browns Insider newsletter at https://profile.beaconjournal.com/newsletters/browns-insider/
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Browns DE Alex Wright tears Achilles, team signs veteran Derek Barnett
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