Browns add depth, sign T Haeg, TE James as opener approaches
BEREA, Ohio (AP) — The Cleveland Browns added depth at two key positions in advance of the season opener, signing offensive tackle Joe Haeg and tight end Jesse James, who both previously played for rival Pittsburgh.
The Browns tweaked their roster Monday as they began preparing for Sunday's opener at Carolina. Both Haeg and James were on the practice field during the portion open to media members.
To make roster room, the team waived guard Drew Forbes and linebacker Jordan Kunaszyk.
Haeg was released by the Steelers last week. He'll give Cleveland some insurance in case All-Pro right tackle Jack Conklin isn't ready to open the season. Conklin underwent extensive knee surgery after tearing his patellar tendon.
Conklin has been doing more in team drills in practice lately, but didn't play in the preseason.
Veteran tackle Chris Hubbard hasn't practiced in two weeks and James Hudson III, a fourth-round pick in 2021, may not be ready for significant playing time.
The 6-foot-6, 304-pound Haeg has made 39 career starts in the NFL. He played with Indianapolis (2016-19), Tampa Bay (2020) and Pittsburgh.
James was not in training camp with anyone this summer. The 6-foot-7, 247-pounder has 157 career catches and 1,522 yards with 12 touchdowns in 102 games. He's played for Pittsburgh, Detroit and Chicago.
James gives coach Kevin Stefanski another proven option at tight end along with David Njoku and Harrison Bryant.
___
More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL
-
2024 NFL predictions: An early look at division winners
If Dak Prescott leaves Cowboys, who are his best suitors in 2025?
The Wizarding World of Howie Roseman: How his Eagles keep getting richer
-
Will the Steelers use QB Justin Fields as returner this season?
J.J. McCarthy finds his ideal home and Joel Klatt's top takeaways from NFL Draft
2024 NFL Power Rankings: A post-draft look at where every team stands
-
Ezekiel Elliott believes he can still be primary running back in return to Cowboys
2024 NFL Schedule Release: Date, when does the season start?
How the Colts have set up QB Anthony Richardson for a big bounce-back year
-
2024 NFL predictions: An early look at division winners
If Dak Prescott leaves Cowboys, who are his best suitors in 2025?
The Wizarding World of Howie Roseman: How his Eagles keep getting richer
-
Will the Steelers use QB Justin Fields as returner this season?
J.J. McCarthy finds his ideal home and Joel Klatt's top takeaways from NFL Draft
2024 NFL Power Rankings: A post-draft look at where every team stands
-
Ezekiel Elliott believes he can still be primary running back in return to Cowboys
2024 NFL Schedule Release: Date, when does the season start?
How the Colts have set up QB Anthony Richardson for a big bounce-back year