Browns Sign OLB Julian Okwara: Cardinals’ Front Seven Gains Firepower in Exchange
The Cleveland Browns have made a move that could ripple through two franchises’ defensive plans for 2025. On Thursday, the Browns signed outside linebacker Julian Okwara, a former member of the Arizona Cardinals and one of the more underrated talents to hit the free agent market this offseason.
The 26-year-old Okwara brings high-energy edge-rushing ability and versatility to a Browns defense that continues to stockpile depth in its front seven. Originally drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Okwara’s NFL journey has been marked by flashes of explosiveness—often hindered by injuries and scheme shifts. Now healthy and looking for a stable role, Okwara lands in Cleveland with an opportunity to contribute in situational pass-rushing packages alongside stars like Myles Garrett and Za’Darius Smith.
While this is a promising pickup for Cleveland, Arizona might just be the bigger winner in the long run. Okwara’s exit clears space for the Cardinals to retool—and they’ve done just that. Following the departure, Arizona’s front seven has seen significant upgrades. The team added reinforcements through both the draft and free agency, including a highly touted rookie defensive tackle and a veteran linebacker with Pro Bowl credentials.
For Arizona, the message is clear: the defense is evolving, and the front seven just leveled up. The mix of young talent and experience gives the Cardinals a renewed edge in the trenches, and expectations are growing for the unit to become a cornerstone of the team’s identity.
Meanwhile, Okwara gets a fresh start in Cleveland—a system that may better suit his hybrid skill set. If he can stay on the field and stay consistent, the Browns could find themselves with one of the sneakiest defensive signings of the offseason.
Both teams walk away from this transaction better positioned: Cleveland with added pass rush depth, and Arizona with a retooled and potentially dominant defensive front.
