The Cleveland Browns did not include wide receiver Luke Floriea on their 53-man roster, a decision that disappointed many fans who were rooting hard for the hometown hero. In the end, it looks like the Ohio native was not as close to making the team as they may have thought.
On Monday, the Browns signed 10 players who were released before the NFL deadline back onto their practice squad. It was thought that Floriea would eventually join them, but that reportedly will not be the case.
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, Cleveland has decided to move on from Floriea, as his underdog story with the Browns takes a surprising turn.
“The Browns will not be bringing Floriea back via the practice squad, per source. Will be looking at options elsewhere,” Fowler posted.
The Browns will not be bringing Floriea back via the practice squad, per source. Will be looking at options elsewhere. https://t.co/d1pzYm9SgH
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 31, 2026
Coming out of his second preseason as an undrafted free agent, the Kent State product looked to have a chance to make the roster as Cleveland’s sixth wide receiver after making two touchdown catches in the first quarter of the preseason finale against the New England Patriots. But his lack of special teams usage proved costly, as the Browns decided to keep Malachi Corley instead.
That would always be the case for Floriea, who at 5-foot-8, 180 pounds may be too undersized to ever contribute in that area. It may have been the deciding factor in the Browns ending the relationship.
Cleveland signed wide receiver Kole Wilson back to the practice squad on Monday, in part for his ability as a kickoff returner. The Browns also added Bub Means, who was let go by the New Orleans Saints, and brought back cornerbacks Myles Bryant and D’Angelo Ross, defensive ends Logan Fano and Khordae Sydnor, offensive lineman KT Leveston, punter Wes Pahl, defensive tackle Tyreak Sapp, safety Zion Washington, and linebacker Nathaniel Watson.
In addition to Floriea, the Browns have not re-signed wide receiver Gage Lavardain, who led them in receptions this preseason. Now that their wide receiver room looks more stable than it has in years, Cleveland is trying to shore up other areas.
Floriea may land with another NFL team, but it may prove difficult based on his limitations as an all-around contributor.
NEXT: Insider Breaks Down Browns' Tough Decision On Luke Floriea
