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Cleveland Browns part ways with player to sign UFL star who is going to have a chance to make their roster

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 7:45 PM ET

Thursday was a busy day for the Cleveland Browns as they made a pair of roster moves, parting ways with one tight end and adding another.

The team announced that they have waived TE Tre’ McKitty, who originally joined the Browns’ practice squad last December and later signed a futures contract. McKitty has appeared in 34 games over three NFL seasons but hasn’t played in a game since 2023.

Cleveland signs UFL star TE Sal Cannella

To fill the void, the Browns looked to the UFL for a potential upgrade at the back end of their tight end room. They signed Sal Cannella, who is coming off a standout season with the Arlington Renegades. In 10 games, Cannella recorded 53 receptions for 496 yards and six touchdowns.

We've signed TE Sal Cannella and waived TE Tre’ McKitty

» https://t.co/XIDX2jiy81 pic.twitter.com/AvkkYyCHSL
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) June 19, 2025

Fresh off an All-UFL selection, Cannella has yet to appear in an NFL game. Though originally signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2021, he has spent time on the practice squads of the Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Listed at 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, Cannella will compete for the Browns’ No. 3 tight end spot. David Njoku remains the clear leader of the group, with rookie Harold Fannin Jr. also in the mix. Cannella will battle Blake Whiteheart and Brendan Bates for a spot on the final roster.

At 28 years old, Cannella is getting another shot at the NFL after putting solid tape together in the UFL. Time will tell if he can seize the opportunity and carve out a role in Cleveland.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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