EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - NOVEMBER 09: Myles Garrett 95 of the Cleveland Browns reacts after a sack with Carson Schwesinger 49 during the game against the New York Jets on November 9, 2025 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA NOV 09 Browns at Jets EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon25110919955

Mar 23, 2026, 6:20 PM CUT

Browns Face New Defensive Shift as Key Linebacker Moves On

The Cleveland Browns have lost an integral defensive player. This one was picked by the Browns three years ago after going undrafted. The 24-year-old will be seen in the Titans’ uniform in 2026

NFL insider Tom Pellisero reported on the development on Sunday in an X post. Over the last three seasons, he'd only missed five games.

“The Titans agreed to terms with LB Mohamoud Diabate, sources tell The Insiders. Diabate played in 46 games (18 starts) over three seasons with the Browns, who didn’t tender him as an RFA,” Pelissero wrote.

The 24-year-old was put in the free agency market after the Browns did not tender him as a restricted free agent. He has now signed an undisclosed contract with the AFC franchise after an 18-start run with the Browns.

In his three seasons, Diabate appeared in 46 games. Last year, his production dipped from 70 (in 2024) to 49 tackles in total with one forced fumble and one forced recovery.

Diabate was overshadowed by rookie and breakout star Carson Schwesinger, who had 156 tackles and 2.5 sacks. The round 2 pick would certainly have been a reason for Diabate's eventual departure.

Cleveland Browns 03/10/2025. Training Session Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski during the press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz training session for Cleveland Browns at the Grove Hotel, Chandler s Cross, United Kingdom on 3 October 2025. Chandler s Cross Grove Hotel Hertfordshire United Kingdom Editorial use only , Copyright: xDennisxGoodwinx PSI-22956-0053

Last season told two stories. The Browns struggled offensively with 16.4 points per game. But the defense exceeded all expectations. Led by star defensive end Myles Garrett, the unit was ranked among the topmost defenses with 53 sacks in 2025 (3rd most in the league).

The Browns’ Success as a Defensive Unit in 2026 is Uncertain

Cleveland might take a hit in the 2026 season with defense coordinator Jim Schwartz having resigned, reportedly unhappy after not landing the head coach job.

Additionally, persistent trade rumors surrounding Garrett add to the unit's uncertainty.

The Browns also have to deal with linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who hasn’t played since the 2024 season after he sustained a grave neck injury from a collision.

Before his season-ending injury, he made 61 tackles, three sacks, and caught one interception and one forced fumble.

Now, Mike Rutenburg, the former Atlanta Falcons defense passing game coordinator, has replaced Schwartz. So far, the franchise has signed free agent and former New York Jets player Quincy Williams to add depth.

With the offseason still active and an NFL Draft scheduled in April, there's no telling what may happen from here.

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote