Browns release veteran defensive lineman

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Just hours after trading Za'Darius Smith to the Lions, the Browns released veteran defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson.

The average age of D-line players dropped significantly, with Smith at 32 and Jefferson at 31.

Jefferson's release isn't a surprise considering he's been a healthy substitute in each of the last four games. The Browns attempted to trade him but opted to release him when a deal could not be reached. He is expected to sign with the Bills, who he played with in 2020, according to a report.

As a ninth-year pro, Jefferson recorded six tackles and one sack for 8 yards in his four limited appearances with the Browns. After being given a one-year contract worth $4 million in the offseason, he became expendable when second-round defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. was released from his five-game personal conduct suspension for a domestic incident with his fiancée NFL policy returned.