Browns sign Maliek Collins to $30 million extension

The Cleveland Browns have secured one of their standout defensive players for the future before their next game against the Tennessee Titans. Cleveland defensive tackle Maliek Collins has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $30 million.

According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Collins’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed the agreement to him and Adam Schefter.

“The Browns and standout DT Maliek Collins have agreed to terms on a 2-year extension for $30M with $23M in total guarantees, agent Drew Rosenhaus tells me and Adam Schefter,” Rapoport wrote.

Collins arrived in Cleveland in 2025 after spending the 2024 season with the San Francisco 49ers. He initially agreed to a two-year, $20 million deal with the Browns, including $13 million in guaranteed money.

The defensive tackle brought plenty of experience to Cleveland, having previously played for the Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, Houston Texans and 49ers. Collins quickly established himself as a key contributor during his first season with the Browns. Despite playing in just 12 games, he registered 6.5 sacks before a serious injury prematurely ended his 2025 season.

Collins’ strong production made his injury a significant setback for Cleveland. The defensive tackle had emerged as a dependable interior pass rusher before suffering a season-ending quadriceps injury.

Though his 2025 season ended sooner than anticipated, Collins demonstrated the impact he could make when healthy.

However, Collins has since bounced back from the injury, and the veteran has continued contributing during the 2026 season. He has started all six games this year for the 4-2 Browns. Through his first six games, he recorded 3.5 sacks and 16 tackles.

For Cleveland, retaining Collins means keeping an experienced defensive lineman who has already proven his ability to perform within the team’s defensive system. The extension provides both sides with a longer-term commitment. Collins was previously set to become a free agent, but he will now remain under the Browns’ control through 2028.