The Cleveland Browns announced on Wednesday that they have released quarterback Brandon Weeden, who they drafted with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
Drafting Weeden was a mistake right from the start and the Oklahoma State product was 438-of-784 passing for 5,116 yards with 23 touchdowns and 26 interceptions in the 23 games that he played in over the course of the last two seasons.
New Browns general manager Ray Farmer issued a short statement on the team website following Weeden’s release.
“First and foremost, the Browns would like to thank Brandon and his agent for being true professionals. The circumstances in which he found himself were not easy for him or the team. After discussions with Brandon and his agent, we’d like to give him the ability to pursue other opportunities.”
With Weeden now out of the picture, the Browns are again expected to address the quarterback position once again in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. They currently have two first-round picks this year with the highest of the two being the fourth overall selection.
The team also still has quarterback Brian Hoyer under contract and many believe he will be the starter in 2014 until a drafted quarterback of the future can win the job. Hoyer had his 2013 season cut short by a knee injury, but is expected to be ready by the start of the season.
Weeden wasn’t the only quarterback released by the Browns on Wednesday as Jason Campbell also received his walking papers as well.
