Browns Sign Quincy Williams, Downgrade at Linebacker

Cleveland replaces Devin Bush with Quincy Williams, a notable decline at the position.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have signed linebacker Quincy Williams to replace the departed Devin Bush, but the move is considered a significant downgrade. Bush was a standout performer for the Browns, earning an impressive 87.6 PFF grade in 2025. In contrast, Williams' play has declined in recent seasons, with his PFF grade dropping to just 45.5 in 2025. The Browns have given Williams a 2-year deal worth $13-$17 million, a substantial investment for a player whose production has trended in the wrong direction.

Why it matters

The Browns' decision to replace a high-performing linebacker like Devin Bush with the declining Quincy Williams is expected to hinder the team's defensive performance. This move raises questions about the Browns' roster management and whether they are making the best decisions to improve their team.

The details

Devin Bush had a breakout season for the Browns in 2025, recording 125 total tackles, 2 sacks, and 8 pass deflections. His stellar play earned him a 3-year, $30 million contract with the Chicago Bears. The Browns, however, opted to replace Bush with Quincy Williams, a one-time All-Pro who has seen his production and PFF grade decline in recent years. In 2025, Williams had just 83 total tackles and a 45.5 PFF grade, a significant drop-off from his 2023 season when he had 139 tackles and an 81.1 PFF grade.

  • Devin Bush signed a 3-year, $30 million contract with the Chicago Bears in 2026.
  • Quincy Williams signed a 2-year, $13-$17 million contract with the Cleveland Browns in 2026.

The players

Devin Bush

A linebacker who had a standout 2025 season with the Cleveland Browns, earning an impressive 87.6 PFF grade before signing a 3-year, $30 million contract with the Chicago Bears.

Quincy Williams

A linebacker who was signed by the Cleveland Browns to replace Devin Bush, but has seen his production and PFF grade decline in recent seasons, dropping to just 45.5 in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Now, it's entirely possible that Bush, much like Williams, was a byproduct of a strong, defensive-minded coach, and that without the former Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz calling the plays, Bush may not be worth his new contract.”

— Chad Porto, Author (sportingnews.com)

What’s next

The Browns will need to closely monitor Quincy Williams' performance and determine if the investment in him was the right move to replace the departed Devin Bush.

The takeaway

The Browns' decision to replace a high-performing linebacker like Devin Bush with the declining Quincy Williams is a concerning move that is expected to weaken the team's defense. This raises questions about the Browns' roster management and whether they are making the best decisions to improve their team.