Browns Agree to Terms with All Pro Linebacker Quincy Williams

Cleveland adds former Jets star to bolster defense

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have signed former New York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams to a two-year contract worth up to $17 million. Williams, an All-Pro in 2023, will help fill the void left by the departure of linebacker Devin Bush, who signed with the Chicago Bears.

Why it matters

The Browns were in need of linebacker help after losing Bush in free agency. Williams, a consistent playmaker over his career, should provide a significant boost to Cleveland's defense as they look to build on a strong 2025 season.

The details

Williams, 29, was a third-round draft pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019 and spent his first two seasons there before joining the Jets. He has recorded over 100 tackles four times in his career, including a first-team All-Pro season in 2023 when he had 95 solo tackles, two forced fumbles, one interception and 10 pass deflections. Williams is known for his speed, range and coverage ability, traits that should fit well in new Browns defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg's system.

  • Williams agreed to terms with the Browns on March 9, 2026.
  • Bush signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Bears earlier this offseason.

The players

Quincy Williams

A former All-Pro linebacker who spent the last five seasons with the New York Jets. He is known for his speed, range and coverage ability.

Devin Bush

A linebacker who departed the Browns in free agency, signing a three-year, $30 million contract with the Chicago Bears.

Mike Rutenberg

The new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, who previously coached Williams when they were both with the Jaguars.

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What they’re saying

“Life is about relationships. Marriage and parenting is about relationships. And that's been my approach to find out what's important to the players.”

— Mike Rutenberg, Browns Defensive Coordinator (247sports.com)

What’s next

The Browns will look to integrate Williams into their defense as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Browns acted quickly to replace a key defensive contributor in Devin Bush by signing the proven and versatile Quincy Williams. This move should help bolster Cleveland's linebacker corps as they aim to build on their success from the previous season.