Former Buccaneers Edge Rusher Signs With Cleveland Browns

A former member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is getting another opportunity in the NFL.

Edge rusher Markees Watts, whom the Buccaneers signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023, is officially moving on from Tampa Bay. Watts signed with the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday, ending his three-year stint with the Buccaneers.

Markees Watts lands with Cleveland Browns

Watts joined the Browns alongside wide receiver Aaron Anderson and linebacker Reid Carrico on Tuesday.

Tampa Bay saw potential in Watts after his college career at Charlotte 49ers, but he never carved out a consistent role in the defensive rotation. Most of his snaps came on special teams, and he recorded 1.5 sacks across three seasons with the Buccaneers.

The Buccaneers reshaped their edge rushing group this offseason by adding players like Rueben Bain Jr. and Al-Quadin Muhammad. Their arrivals pushed Watts further down the depth chart, making it difficult for him to secure meaningful playing time entering his fourth season.

Now, Watts will try to earn a fresh start in Cleveland. Several former Buccaneers have landed there in recent years, including former teammate Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, who also joined the Browns after leaving Tampa Bay.

With Watts gone, Bain and edge rusher Yaya Diaby are expected to lead the position group, while Muhammad projects as the third option. Anthony Nelson likely slots in as the fourth edge rusher, while David Walker and Chris Braswell could battle for the final rotational role.

Given the competition at the position, Watts faced an uphill battle to earn defensive snaps in Tampa Bay. A move elsewhere gives him a better chance to compete for playing time.

The rest of Tampa Bay’s roster will begin OTAs on May 26 as the offseason program continues. Cleveland opened OTAs on Tuesday, allowing Watts to immediately begin working with his new team.