The Cleveland Browns have released veteran center Brian Allen, who was recently placed on injured reserve due to a calf injury. Allen, a Super Bowl champion who spent six seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, joined the Browns in May after being released by the Rams earlier in the year. He was expected to serve as a backup and rotational player behind Ethan Pocic, but his injury led to his release with an injury settlement.
Allen, drafted 111th overall by the Rams in the 2018 NFL Draft, had a challenging start to his career. In his rookie season, he appeared in 13 games as a backup. He became the starting center in 2019 when John Sullivan departed but was sidelined with an MCL injury by Week 10. The 2020 season saw Allen miss the entire year after being the first NFL player to test positive for COVID-19, though he rebounded strongly in 2021.
In 2021, Allen started 16 of 17 games and played a key role in the Rams’ Super Bowl run. He was named a Pro Bowl alternate but did not participate due to the Super Bowl appearance. He signed a two-year, $14 million extension in 2022 but struggled with injuries, limiting him to just five games. His 2023 season was similarly affected, as he lost his starting role to Coleman Shelton and appeared in only five games.
Although the Browns hoped Allen could recover and contribute in 2024, his continued injury issues led to his release. He may have the opportunity to sign with another team once he is off injured reserve, but his health concerns may complicate his prospects.
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