The Cleveland Browns continue to fortify their defensive front, officially signing defensive end Julian Okwara to the roster. The move adds experience and versatility to a unit already featuring standout pass rusher Myles Garrett.
Originally selected in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, Okwara entered the league as a linebacker out of Notre Dame. Over four seasons in Detroit, he played in 38 games (four starts), recording 54 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback hits, nine sacks, three passes defensed, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and one interception.
In 2024, Okwara joined the Arizona Cardinals' practice squad and was later promoted to the active roster in September. During his one season with Arizona, he appeared in 13 games (one start) as an outside linebacker, posting 18 tackles, three tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, one sack, and one pass defensed.
Now with the Browns, Okwara transitions to a defensive end role in Jim Schwartz’s aggressive 4-3 scheme. His background as an outside linebacker with both the Lions and Cardinals makes him a natural fit to contribute off the edge.
Okwara will be part of a deep defensive end rotation that includes Myles Garrett, Sam Kamara, Isaiah McGuire, Ogbo Okoronkwo, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, and Alex Wright. His signing enhances the Browns’ pass-rush potential and provides valuable depth as the team gears up for the 2025 NFL season.
