Cleveland Browns

Browns release veteran linebacker Paul Kruger

Published Nov. 15, 2016 1:42 p.m. ET

foxsports

CLEVELAND (AP) -- The Browns have released linebacker Paul Kruger, a startling move in another step in the team's youth movement.

Kruger started 46 games and made 18 sacks in three seasons for Cleveland and was considered one of the team's leaders. He was signed in 2013 after four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens.

The 30-year-old recorded just 2.5 sacks last season as the Browns struggled to find the right role for him. Last week, the Browns traded linebacker Barkevious Mingo. Rookies Emmanuel Ogbah or Joe Schobert could take Kruger's starting spot.

Kruger posted a statement on Twitter in which he thanked the Browns but said his release was "absolutely the wrong decision."

The Browns also terminated the contracts of defensive end Nick Hayden and quarterback Austin Davis. The team waived kicker Travis Coons, giving Patrick Murray the starting job.