Cleveland Browns sign USFL Defensive Player of the Year

The Cleveland Browns have signed USFL Defensive Player of the Year Chris Odom

For many in the Cleveland Browns fandom, the name Chris Odom won’t ring a bell. The former Arkansas player has bounced around various leagues and teams over his pro career, which started in 2017 with the Atlanta Falcons. After failed stints in Atlanta and Green Bay, Odom found himself in the AAF, with the Salt Lake Stallions.

In eight games with the Stallions, Odom posted 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks in fairly limited time. It was enough to get him a second look in the NFL, once again with the Falcons and another opportunity with the Washington Commanders.

He would once again find himself out of the league, this time playing for the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders, where he barely registered anytime. Finally, he ended up in the restarted USFL, playing for the Houston Gamblers. During his lone season, he posted 41 tackles and 12.5 sacks, which was enough to earn him the USFL Defensive Player of the Year Award.

Afterward, many thought he’d sign right on with an NFL team but that didn’t end up happening. Instead, it took an injury to Stephen Weatherly for the Cleveland Browns to finally sign the veteran end.

The Cleveland Browns made the right move by signing Chris Odom

Chris Odom may not be a household name and he may not be a Pro Bowl player in the NFL, but what he is is experienced. Odom throws a monkeywrench into the team and may end up forcing the Browns to make a move they weren’t expecting to if he does in fact continue his USFL level of play.

Prior to the start of training camp, it seemed pretty obvious who the Browns were going to keep at the position, but now Odom may make the team re-think their roster. Odom has to be impressive in order to force their hand because if he’s not, the team will just cut him.

Yet, I think Odom could be the next Cameron Wake in a lot of ways; a veteran player that bounced around various leagues and eventually found a spot with the Miami Dolphins.