Browns To Release OT Cornelius Lucas

A spot starter throughout his 12-year career, Lucas will return to the open market off a 10-game season with Cleveland. The 34-year-old started in five games along an injury-ravaged Browns line. The majority of his work came at right tackle, where he racked up 221 snaps. He also played 64 snaps at left tackle in a Week 3 upset over the Packers.

Lucas’ release will be part of a massive O-line overhaul for the Browns this offseason. Pending free agent guard Wyatt Teller has already said his goodbyes to Cleveland on social media. Fellow soon-to-be free agent guard Joel Bitonio is mulling retirement. Reserve guard Teven Jenkins is also unsigned, as are tackles Cam Robinson and Jack Conklin, and center Ethan Pocic.

While the Browns are poised to lose a handful of linemen, they made a significant addition to the unit in acquiring guard/tackle Tytus Howard from the Texans on Monday. Cleveland and Howard quickly agreed to a three-year, $63MM extension. Further notable pickups will be in order over the next couple of months.

The Browns entered the day approximately $17.31MM over the salary cap. Releasing Lucas will free up $2.045MM and leave the club with $1.6MM in dead money. Also a former Lion, Ram, Saint, Bear and Commander, the well-traveled Lucas will head back to free agency with 139 games and 59 starts on his resume.