Browns Release Williams, Sign Three to Practice Squad
Cleveland shuffles its practice squad roster to bolster defensive tackle depth after recent player injuries.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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The Cleveland Browns released Chris Williams from their practice squad on Tuesday. The team simultaneously signed Andrew Coker, Wes Pahl, and John Saunders to fill the vacancies.
Why it matters
The organization is actively managing its defensive tackle depth following injuries sustained by Mason Graham and Mike Hall Jr. during recent play.
Chris Williams logged 17 defensive snaps against the New York Jets and 9 snaps against the Baltimore Ravens. Mason Graham has recorded 15 tackles and 4 sacks this season despite managing MCL and ankle sprains.
The players
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are a professional American football team based in Cleveland that competes in the North Division of the American Football Conference.
Mason Graham
Mason Graham is a defensive player for the Browns currently working through MCL and ankle injuries.
Mike Hall Jr.
Mike Hall Jr. is a defensive contributor for the team who sustained an ankle injury during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The details
The team moved to add reinforcements after losing depth pieces, including Bub Means, who is on the practice squad injured reserve with a knee injury. The Browns hold a 4-2 record heading into their upcoming contest against the Tennessee Titans.
Timeline
Week 4: Mason Graham and Mike Hall Jr. suffered their respective injuries.
Friday: Mason Graham participated in practice on a limited basis.
Tuesday: Chris Williams was released from the practice squad.
Sunday: The Cleveland Browns are scheduled to play the Tennessee Titans.
Season Trajectory
These practice squad adjustments reflect the Browns' strategy to maintain roster stability during a competitive 4-2 start to the season. The signings aim to protect the team's depth chart as the club prepares for its upcoming game against the Tennessee Titans.
The roster depth shuffle ensures the team has available personnel for defensive rotations in the upcoming Sunday game against the Tennessee Titans. Fans should monitor the injury report for Mason Graham, who was limited in practice on Friday, to gauge the defensive unit's readiness.
The takeaway
Maintaining a flexible practice squad is critical for NFL teams during the mid-season when injury attrition threatens performance. Consistency on the defensive line remains the team's primary focus as they prepare for Sunday's matchup.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's roster, visit the Football section.
Live Poll
Do you trust the recent roster changes will improve your local team's performance this season?
