CLE Alex Wright
NFL player. Position: DE. Team: CLE.
Quick Facts
- Position: DE
- Team: CLE (Cleveland Browns)
- Experience: 3 seasons
- Contract: 3-year, $33 million extension (signed November 2025)
2026 Outlook
Critical loss to Browns defensive end rotation. Wright sustained a ruptured Achilles in a joint practice with Buffalo on August 22 and was placed on season-ending injured reserve—a catastrophic blow to a player who was expected to anchor the edge alongside Jared Verse following Myles Garrett's trade to the Rams. Wright recorded a career-high 5.5 sacks in 2025 and just signed a three-year, $33 million extension in November, positioning him as a cornerstone piece. The Achilles tear is typically a 12-18 month recovery for pass rushers, making 2026 a lost season. Isaiah McGuire (5.5 career sacks) will assume Wright's role opposite Verse, with Derek Barnett added to provide veteran depth (per Browns lose DE Wright (Achilles) for season, add DE Barnett).
Role / Depth Chart
Was starting defensive end for the Browns, opposite two-time Pro Bowler Jared Verse, prior to the Achilles injury. Now on season-ending injured reserve.
Injury Status
Season-ending injury (August 22, 2026): Ruptured Achilles tendon suffered in joint practice with Buffalo. Placed on season-ending injured reserve. Achilles injuries typically require 12-18 months recovery for pass rushers; realistically out for all of 2026 and possibly into 2027.
Recent News
- 2026-08-23 — Browns lose DE Wright (Achilles) for season, add DE Barnett (Browns lose DE Wright (Achilles) for season, add DE Barnett)