Former Ravens linebacker Paul Kruger has joined the Cleveland Browns.
According to ESPN , the talented pass-rusher agreed to a five-year deal worth $41 million Tuesday.
“We are very excited about the addition of Paul Kruger to our team,” new Browns coach Rob Chudzinski said in a release. “He is a talented linebacker who is going to make an immediate impact on our defense. When you put on the film you see physicality, explosive pass rush and a high motor. He has been very productive for the Ravens, and proved it at the highest level last season in the playoffs.”
A second round pick out of Utah in the 2009 NFL draft, Kruger had a breakout 2012-13 season, leading the Ravens with nine sacks to go along with 42 tackles, one interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
Then, he added 4.5 sacks in the postseason, including two in the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII win over the San Francisco 49ers.
“Paul is the type of player we were looking to bring on at the outset of free agency, and we are thrilled that we were able to sign him,” said Browns CEO Joe Banner.”Not only do we feel strongly about his ability as a football player, but he will add a great deal from a leadership standpoint as well. He has exhibited marked improvement each year of his career and we believe he can help the Cleveland Browns for many years to come.”
Kruger, 27, may not have been Cleveland’s only defensive addition on the first day of free agency.
According to multiple reports, former Oakland tackle Desmond Bryant is close to signing a five-year deal with the team as well.
Bryant, who gained notoriety in February when his mugshot went viral , spent his first four seasons with the Raiders and has recorded 95 tackles and 11.5 sacks over the course of his career.
NFL Live discusses Paul Kruger’s deal with the Cleveland Browns in the video below:
