The Cleveland Browns have secured Greg Newsome II’s future. As anticipated, the team has chosen to extend the rookie cornerback’s contract for a fifth year. Drafted in the first round in 2021, Newsome is set to earn $13.3 million in 2025.
Despite trade rumors circulating for some time, especially leading up to the recent NFL draft, the Browns have remained committed to Newsome. They confirmed their commitment by exercising the option before Thursday’s 4 p.m. deadline.
“We’re really pleased with Greg,” stated general manager Andrew Berry during his post-draft press conference on Saturday. “We want as many capable cornerbacks as possible.”
There’s still a chance the Browns might negotiate a long-term contract extension with Newsome, which he himself has expressed as a goal.
In his three seasons, Newsome has started 39 out of 41 games. Although he didn’t secure an interception in his first two years, he made a crucial interception in the last season, returning it for a touchdown and aiding in Cleveland’s comeback victory against Baltimore on Nov. 12.
Although he prefers playing on the outside, Newsome has demonstrated versatility by being effective in the slot, particularly against quick, smaller receivers.
Alongside Pro Bowler Denzel Ward and Martin Emerson Jr., he bolsters the Browns’ cornerback lineup, making it one of the best in the AFC.
Newsome, aged 23, was the 26th overall pick in the 2021 draft after an impressive collegiate career at Northwestern.
