National Football League

Browns sign QB Josh Johnson

Published Dec. 26, 2012 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Cleveland Browns have signed free agent quarterback Josh Johnson.

Johnson replaced safety Usama Young on the roster Wednesday as the Browns look for protection at quarterback, where starter Brandon Weeden went out with a sprained right shoulder in Cleveland's 34-12 loss in Denver on Sunday.

Young sustained a thumb injury that likely will require surgery. He joins a battered defensive backfield that is already missing T.J. Ward with a knee injury. Cornerback Sheldon Brown sustained a concussion in Denver. The club also signed defensive back Jordan Mabin to the practice squad.

Johnson played in 26 games for Tampa Bay after being a fifth-round choice in 2008. He was in San Francisco's camp this summer.