Brian Hartline

Browns release Brian Hartline

Wide receiver Brian Hartline has been released by the Cleveland Browns.

What It Means:

It's a surprise in that the Browns have zero receiver depth and Hartline was easily their best holdover, but entirely unsurprising in the context of their commitment to tanking the 2016 season. The Browns are playing for the future, and 29-year-old Hartline wasn't going to be a part of it. New coach Hue Jackson now has even more snaps to divvy up amongst his four rookie wideouts. Hartline should draw plenty of interest as a third or fourth option at receiver that can help move the chains.

Hartline played in 12 games for the Browns in 2015, bringing in 46 catches (77 targets) for 523 yards and two touchdowns. Among the 79 receivers who had at least 75 targets last season, Hartline ranked 43rd in the league with 0.67 Reception Net Expected Points per target.