The Cleveland Browns have waived Jaelen Gill just ahead of training camp kicking off.\
Gill signed with the Browns in June with hopes of competing for a roster spot. However, that opportunity won’t come in Cleveland. The team announced on Tuesday that it has waived Gill with a non-football injury designation.
Gill went undrafted last season but signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. He failed to make the 53-man roster and was later released. Gill eventually landed on the Browns’ practice squad for a stint during the 2024 season.
He saw limited action during OTAs and minicamp this offseason and recently shared his thoughts on the Browns’ quarterback room in an interview with Barry Shuck of Dawgs by Nature.
“I had a little time with Pickett. I have been with Shedeur and Gabriel for the most part. They are trying to learn this offense like the rest of us, since it is different this year from what it was,” Gill said. “We are all learning together. So far, they are doing a good job. Both are very vocal, executing, and know their stuff. Both have been learning their job.”
Browns WR David Bell Dealing With Non-Football Injury
The Browns also announced that David Bell will start training camp on the Active/Non-Football Injury List. The designation is for players who were injured outside of official team practices or games. It’s somewhat surprising, given Bell is coming off hip surgery. He did not participate in OTAs or minicamp but was spotted catching passes from Deshaun Watson at the team facility this offseason.
Bell, selected No. 99 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, has struggled to carve out a meaningful role in Cleveland’s offense. The latest designation is another setback. Over three seasons, he’s tallied just 41 receptions for 408 yards and three touchdowns.
Bell’s most recent campaign was derailed early. After being waived in early September — a move strategically timed by the Browns to reduce the risk of another team claiming him — he cleared waivers and rejoined the practice squad.
He was elevated to the active roster for a Week 2 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars but suffered a dislocated hip and was carted off the field, ending his season prematurely.
Browns Looking for Depth at Wide Receiver
The Browns are still looking for answers at wide receiver. Jerry Jeudy will be the team’s No. 1 option. Beyond that, the depth chart remains wide open.
Cedric Tillman and Diontae Johnson are expected to be in the mix for key roles, while Jamari Thrash and Michael Woods II will aim to make strong impressions in camp. A larger group — including Kaden Davis, Luke Floriea, Jaelen Gill, Kisean Johnson, Gage Larvadain and Cade McDonald — will battle for spots on the 53-man roster.
Johnson, a former Pro Bowler, is a name to watch during training camp and the preseason. He joined Cleveland on a veteran minimum deal with no guarantees, but brings intriguing upside. Over six seasons, he’s racked up 424 catches for 4,738 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Cleveland’s first preseason game is scheduled for Aug. 8 against the Carolina Panthers.
