Cleveland Browns release veteran WR Andrew Hawkins

The Cleveland Browns don’t have a quarterback, but after drafting five wideouts last year, they have plenty of depth at receiver. It got a bit thinner on Monday, though, as the team released veteran Andrew Hawkins. He announced the news in a video, saying he’s “officially a former Cleveland Brown.”

https://twitter.com/uninterrupted/status/836247524633538560

Head coach Hue Jackson, who coached Hawkins last season, also put out a statement. He praised Hawkins for his hard work and leadership in the locker room.

https://twitter.com/Browns/status/836248289326612481

Hawkins, 30, had a down year in 2016, catching 33 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns. That came two years after he broke out in 2014, recording 63 receptions for 824 yards and two touchdowns.

He’s slight in size (5-7, 175)  but makes up for his lack of height with quickness and agility. He may not be one of the top free-agent wide receivers on the market, but as a cheap option he could be a valuable addition as a slot guy.

As for the impact this has on the Browns, they save $1.8 million against the cap and open up a spot on the depth chart for one of their many young receivers. Corey Coleman and Terrelle Pryor – assuming the latter returns – figure to be their top wideouts next season.