Browns expected to part ways with 2022 third-round CB after missing entire 2025 season

The Cleveland Browns have some work to do on the offensive side of the ball this offseason. Offensive line and wide receiver are two massive needs for the Browns this spring.

But the defensive side of the ball still needs some attention. However, the cornerback room is likely staying the same with Denzel Ward and Tyson Campbell locking down the outside spots.

Thanks to those two players, ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi is expecting the Browns to not re-sign 25-year-old cornerback Martin Emerson Jr., who was on a "Pro Bowl track" before he missed the entire 2025 season due to injury.

Browns expected to let Martin Emerson Jr. walk in FA

"FA most likely on the move: CB Martin Emerson Jr.," Oyefusi writes. "The 2022 third-round pick appeared to be on a Pro Bowl track before he struggled in 2024 and had an Achilles injury that cost him the 2025 season."

Emerson is still 25 years old, but after missing the entire 2025 season, his free agency will be one of the more interesting ones this offseason.

The Browns aren't likely to bring him back, with a ton of money invested into Campbell and Ward already at the cornerback position.

The 6-foot-2, 201-pound cornerback is likely to leave Cleveland after playing just three seasons with the team, thanks to his Achilles injury.

More: Mike Evans is not a fit in Cleveland for 4 reasons

In 2023, the best year of his career, Emerson recored four interceptions, 14 passes defended, 59 total tackles, and a ridiculous 46.3 passer rating against on 79 targets.

His remarkable 2023 was followed by a rough 2024, which saw Emerson allow a 100.1 pass rating, only five pass breakups, and 80 tackles in 15 starts.

Those 2024 struggles, combined with an Achilles injury that forced him to miss the entire 2025 season, and the presence of Campbell and Ward, mean there's no room for Emerson on the roster.

The 2022 third-round pick is hitting free agency and is expected to find a new landing spot this offseason after some up-and-down years with Cleveland.

More Browns news:

• Travis Kelce linked to Cleveland amid potential Chiefs split
• Rasheed Walker linked to Cleveland amid $80 million contract projection
• ESPN does not like Tytus Howard trade for Cleveland
• Browns trade for offensive tackle Tytus Howard from Texans
• Shedeur Sanders might not have to compete with Malik Willis in 2026
• Cornelius Lucas released to save $2M by Browns