BREAKING: Another Browns key man depart and sign a huge contract with Chargers

Browns GM Andrew Berry has repeatedly emphasized the importance of offensive and defensive linemen for his roster, highlighting the challenge of acquiring quality players in these positions.

This offseason, Berry has brought in over six linemen, including three selected in the 2024 NFL Draft.

One player Berry evaluated but chose not to retain was offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood.

NFL analyst Adam Schefter announced on Twitter Wednesday evening that Leatherwood has signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, continuing his career in the NFL.

Chargers signed former Raiders first-round pick Alex Leatherwood, who has started 17-of-21 NFL games played with the Raiders and Bears.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 29, 2024

Last year, Leatherwood spent the entire season on the Browns’ practice squad before Cleveland waived the third-year player in January.

Leatherwood showed significant promise entering the NFL, which led the Las Vegas Raiders to select the former Alabama tackle with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2021 draft.

The offensive lineman signed a four-year, $14 million deal with the Raiders, but struggles in his rookie season caused Las Vegas to lose confidence in his potential.

The Raiders released Leatherwood before the 2022 season began, but Chicago quickly claimed the 6-foot-5 athlete off waivers.

He lasted one season with the Bears before the team decided to waive him before finalizing their 53-man roster.

In his two seasons on active rosters, Leatherwood started 17 of the 21 games he played for the Raiders and Bears.

At Alabama, Leatherwood was part of two national championship football teams.

In 2020, he won the Outland Trophy and was a unanimous All-American selection in his final collegiate season.