Browns release WR Jordan Norwood, 4 others to reduce roster to 83, must be at 75 by Tuesday

8/26/2013

BEREA, Ohio — The Browns have released wide receiver Jordan Norwood, who struggled with injuries during his three seasons in Cleveland.

Norwood’s contract was terminated today by the team, which announced the move shortly after practice started. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Norwood was limited during the preseason by a nagging hamstring injury and the Browns couldn’t wait any longer for him to get completely healthy. He returned to practice last week but didn’t play in Saturday’s exhibition loss at Indianapolis.

Norwood had 13 receptions for 137 yards in two games last season. A four-year starter at Penn State, he had a career-high nine catches for 81 yards on Oct. 7 against the New York Giants, but sustained a foot injury and was sidelined for the remainder of the season.

He had 36 career receptions for 405 yards and one touchdown in 16 games — four starts — with the Browns, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He was released and spent one season on Philadelphia’s practice squad before returning to Cleveland.

Norwood’s release could open a roster spot for Josh Cooper, whose future with the Browns was in question.

By releasing five players tonday, the Browns roster is at 83. They have to get down to the NFL-mandated, 75-player limit by 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Earlier, the team waived defensive end Dave Kruger, the brother of starting linebacker Paul Kruger. Dave Kruger was signed as an undrafted free agent by Cleveland in April. He was slowed during training camp by a concussion.

The Browns also waived defensive back Vernon Kearney, wide receiver Cordell Roberson and linebacker Tommy Smith.